"Prayers Reach Heaven"

King Hezekiah sent his word abroad,  
To Ephraim and Manasseh far away;  
To come to Zion and the Lord that day,  
And keep the Passover before their God.

The couriers passed, some met with scorn severe,   
As some grew meek and came with hearts made clean;  
Though unprepared, they sought the holy scene,  
And God in mercy healed and brought them near.

The whole assembly chose to stay once more,  
And kept the feast with gladness, bright and clear;  
The king and princes gave with heart and cheer,  
Till joy and praise rose upward evermore.

Priests and Levites blessed the gathered throng,  
Prayer rose up to heaven clear and strong.

Content based upon 2 Chronicles 14–20; 26; 30

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This poetic retelling of biblical events focuses on King Hezekiah’s ambitious effort to reunite a divided people through a massive Passover celebration in Jerusalem. Despite facing initial mockery from some regions, a humble group of worshippers gathered to seek divine favor through sincere repentance. The narrative highlights how the mercy of God healed those who were ritually unprepared, allowing the festivities to extend into an additional week of joyful worship. Throughout the event, the generosity of leadership and the dedication of the priesthood fostered an atmosphere of profound communal gratitude. Ultimately, the source illustrates a spiritual renewal where the collective prayers of the faithful successfully ascended to the heavens.