We can have sympathy for Daniel's desire to return to the promised land. Daniel wants to worship his God without persecution. He believes the words of Jeremiah, but yet Daniel does not return to the land. Daniel's desire intensifies because when his people do return to the promised land they face intense persecution while rebuilding the temple. How can Daniel cope with the Lord allowing his people to be persecuted when they rebuild the temple? Does God know? Does God care? How does the Lord show the bigger picture of history? Can we take comfort that history's goal is set?