In life, we are often too busy looking ahead, planning for the future, that we forget to look back and remember the steps that have brought us to this point. Just as a tree cannot stand firmly without roots, so too, we cannot understand our identity without knowing and reflecting on our origins. The story in Ezra 2:55-58 reminds us of the importance of history, not just past facts, but as the foundation of our identity and calling today. History is interpreted as a trace of God’s protection that is woven into the past and will continue in the future.

Today’s reading contains a list of the names of Solomon’s servants, servants who were assigned to secular work in the temple of God. Although they may seem small, their role remains important in maintaining the continuity of worship and the lives of God’s people. They are part of a large community that understands that serving God is not just about a big role, but about loyalty wherever God places us. For the Israelites, genealogy was not just a lineage, but an inheritance that determined the claim to the promised land and the right to serve God. Even in the time of suffering exile, they maintained this identity. There was meticulousness in recording, there was seriousness in ensuring that every task related to worship and holiness was carried out only by those who were worthy. This shows how important it is to honor God's calling and maintain holiness in life and ministry.

This story also speaks of restoration, both physically and spiritually. When the Israelites returned to their homeland, they not only rebuilt their homes and cities, but also rebuilt their relationship with God. Recording genealogies was not just an administrative matter, but a symbol that they remembered who they were before God and kept that calling faithfully.

Bible friends, 'history' or the series of life experiences that we experience is a gift, which teaches and shapes us. In a flashback of events that happened in the past, there should be many things that we can learn, especially in relation to God's involvement in our life history. Through this reflection, we are called to maintain our identity as His people with a commitment to live in holiness and serve God faithfully. Let our history be our strength, not to get stuck in the past, but to move forward with confidence that the God who was faithful in the past is the God who leads us into His future full of promise.