Zerubbabel was an important leader among the initial migration of Jews from Babylon. Arriving in Jerusalem they built an altar and began work on the temple. Though the government forced them to stop, Zerubbabel eventually led the effort to reinitiate the building project. Likewise, Clarence Jordan of Georgia serves as an example of persevering in the work God called him to amid great opposition and danger. These two examples show us the value of persevering through tedium and trials so that we can be faithful to God’s calling on our lives.

Ezra 1:3, 5 In 538BC Cyrus the Great, king of the Medes and the Persians, released the captives of Judah to return to their ancestral land. Nearly 50,000 people responded to the call, migrating approximately 900 miles from Babylon to Jerusalem.

Ezra 3:2-3 After arriving, they set up an altar where the temple had been and offered burnt offerings to God.

Ezra 3:7-8, 11 Under Zerubbabel’s leadership, they laid the foundation of the temple and threw a celebration to mark the event.

Ezra 4:4-5 Opposition arose from “the people of the land” who bribed government officials to stop the construction project.

Ezra 5:1-2 Haggai and Zecahriah prophesied that God wanted them to begin the work again. Amid great uncertainty and likely persecution, Zerubbabel reinitiated the building project.

Ezra 6:6-12 After an official investigation by local and national governments, Darius I officially endorsed the work, even contributing funds to it.

Ezra 6:17-18 Because Zerubbabel persevered, God’s people finished the temple and dedicated it with many sacrifices and much celebrating.