God was leading His people back to Jerusalem after their captivity in Babylon. God moved the heart of Cyrus, the king of the Persian Empire, to issue a new decree. This proclamation in 538 BC opened the door for a mass exodus. The first wave of Israelites focused on rebuilding the temple with Zerubbabel. The second group, led by Ezra, brought conviction and a call to return to God. The third collective built a wall as Nehemiah organized and inspired the people.

City transformation has many components.

God changes our hearts, families, churches, and communities. Returning to God includes a desire to know and glorify God. There are foundational commitments to Scripture, serving, and sacrifice. Instead of merely a small remnant in a church being devoted, the call is for a 100 percent church.

The God of heaven is worthy of our trust and dedication.

God abounds in grace and restores individuals and generations after prior failure. Opportunity and encouragement are gifts from God. Just as the temple was the hub of community life then, local churches are beacons in neighborhoods today.

A city won’t be stronger than the health of the churches.

Let’s restore what God is calling us to redeem and rebuild the ruins together.