Different Responses

Ezra 3:13 The joyful shouting and weeping mingled together in a loud noise that could be heard far in the distance. The younger generation saw the Temple foundation and shouted for joy. On the contrary, the older generation compared it to Solomon's Temple and they wept. Who was right? Those who shouted for joy, or those who cried? They were both right. The joy of seeing the Temple of The Lord built was definitely justified. The remnant were ready to worship and offer sacrifices to God. It was an incredibly exciting time for them. But it was also a time of sadness. The older folks remembered the glory and splendor of Solomon's Temple. It was built with unlimited resources and during a time of great abundance for the nation. But now, after the captivity, the nation was in a different state. Although the Temple was still a beautiful structure, it wasn't even close to its former magnificence. The tears probably also represented wasted years. Years spent in captivity because of rebellion. Years that couldn't be relived, just remembered and regretted. It's natural to look back at time wasted with regrets, but it's very important for us to take joy in every blessing that God allows us to be apart of. And by the way, even though the new Temple didn't compare to its predecessor, it would have more glory, because the King of Glory would one day walk within its walls (Haggai 2:9).