Defining MomentsSample

Years after Daniel lived, the Babylonians were attacked and destroyed by the Persian empire and God opened the heart of the king of Persia to allow the Israelites to return to their homeland in Israel. Ezra would lead the people and help them rebuild God’s temple that was destroyed by the Babylonians. Yet, when the newly returned exiles arrived in Jerusalem they began to lose sight of their mission. They began to rebuild the city and their homes but they forgot to rebuild God’s temple. They made the mistake of exchanging the best thing for good things. It took God speaking through the prophet Haggai to remind them of their mission. 

How often are we the same way? We know what we are supposed to do—we have a mission from God to reach the world with the Gospel—but we often forget to intentionally live and share the Gospel because we get caught up in our normal lives. Even things that are good and right such as doing chores around the house, doing our homework, being involved in clubs and sports teams get in the way of our mission. These things are not inherently bad, they are often good things. But in the defining moments of our middle and high school careers,  have we traded in the best thing—sharing the Gospel—for the good things we can do? We, like Ezra, need a reminder to complete the task we are called to which is sharing Jesus with our friends in our schools.

Reflection Questions:

- What are some of the good things that get in the way of you growing in your relationship with Jesus or sharing the Gospel with others?

- Ezra had Haggai who was able to remind him of his mission. Who is someone in your life who can help keep you accountable?

- Ezra and the people of Jerusalem faced a defining moment when they had to decide to do the best thing and not just good things. What good things do you need to cut out of your life to make room for best things?