The exile is over, and the people of God return home. Unsure of their next step, they survey the damage left when they were forced out of their homes. Their beautiful temple lay in ruins. Rebuilding must begin in every facet of their lives. Many people returning had no idea what the mighty city of Jerusalem looked like in its heyday. For now, they feel the beautiful dirt of the earth beneath their feet and thank the Creator that they are no longer in a strange land.
Most of us know what it is like to return from catastrophic events in our lives. Whether it is health, relationship, or spiritual issues, the consequences are devastating. We look around and view the damages, knowing that we must pick ourselves up and move forward. Our amazing God gives us new hope and a will to bloom where we are planted.
For now, standing in our own land, the sun shines brighter, the trees are greener, and the birds sing sweeter. We reclaim our part of the earth where we are connected to God. There exists a new found freedom to discover our heart’s desire. Passion reignites within our souls. We are made knew with promises yet to be fulfilled. Hope once again moves us onward.
On this day, I am grateful for the journey to this place. The one my feet stand in at this very moment. The trip never promised to be easy, but relying on the One, who supplied the light and strength, it was manageable. We come back to the promised land, a new people, filled with hope. Praise be to God, I learned the lessons needed to land me at this moment.
From a Pastor's Point of View 