This morning we embark on our study verse by verse through the Old Testament book of Ezra. Following the 70 year Babylonian exile, God stirs the heart of Cyrus, king of Persia, to bring a remnant of His people back to Judah in order to rebuild the temple of the Lord. God demonstrates his faithfulness, both to His Word and to His people, as He keeps His promises. Scripture text for today is Ezra 1:1-2:70.