The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 268: Rebuilding the Temple (2025)
13 snips
Sep 25, 2025 Fr. Mike dives into the rebuilding of the Jerusalem temple, emphasizing the importance of moving forward. He discusses the mixed emotions surrounding the temple's foundation and the refusal of the Jews to accept Samaritan help due to religious divides. The narrative also explores political obstacles that halted the reconstruction and highlights Zechariah's powerful visions urging repentance and God's protective promise. Through a call for renewal, Fr. Mike connects these themes to spiritual transformation and the hope of a brighter future.
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Worship Over Territory
- Restoring temple worship was the priority for returnees, not just reclaiming land.
- The people reestablished daily sacrifices and celebrated when the foundation was laid.
Mixed Reactions At The Foundation
- Joy and grief coexisted when the temple foundation was laid, reflecting complex memory and hope.
- Some elders wept remembering Solomon's glorious temple while others shouted for present praise.
Samaritan Opposition And Political Tactics
- Samaritans offered help but were excluded because their worship was syncretic and unfaithful.
- Political maneuvering and mixed truths led to letters that halted the temple work.
