After seventy years in Babylon, the captives of Judah began to long for Jerusalem and a return to their homeland. The new world power of Persia was more inclined to allow the natives of the land of Israel to return. King Cyrus even sent supplies and materials to begin the massive project of rebuilding the city of Jerusalem.
Home construction was the first priority after the inhabitants of Judah returned from the Exile. They rebuilt their living quarters and restored their lives. Eventually, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah inspired the continuation and completion of the construction on the temple.
Many years later Nehemiah oversaw the construction of the walls bringing protection to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. After more than 200 years without walls the project was completed in an astonishing 52 days. The project stands as a testament to the potential of combined, focused effort. Many building projects look to Nehemiah for inspiration to complete the task.
Restoration takes more than building walls, constructing homes, and designing places of worship. Restoration for the Jews also required personal healing, recommitment to the covenant, and a fresh renewal of corporate and private worship.
The lesson to us is that restoration is not accomplished in one prayer session or in some miraculous moment. The process of restoration takes time. Healing is natural when the injury is repaired. And when we join our efforts and our faith with other believers much can be accomplished. Restoration is God’s plan and promise for each of us.
Home construction was the first priority after the inhabitants of Judah returned from the Exile. They rebuilt their living quarters and restored their lives. Eventually, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah inspired the continuation and completion of the construction on the temple.
Many years later Nehemiah oversaw the construction of the walls bringing protection to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. After more than 200 years without walls the project was completed in an astonishing 52 days. The project stands as a testament to the potential of combined, focused effort. Many building projects look to Nehemiah for inspiration to complete the task.
Restoration takes more than building walls, constructing homes, and designing places of worship. Restoration for the Jews also required personal healing, recommitment to the covenant, and a fresh renewal of corporate and private worship.
The lesson to us is that restoration is not accomplished in one prayer session or in some miraculous moment. The process of restoration takes time. Healing is natural when the injury is repaired. And when we join our efforts and our faith with other believers much can be accomplished. Restoration is God’s plan and promise for each of us.
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