Read: Ezra 1:5-8; 3:10-13Over a period of about 500 years, the Israelites began wondering away from God and turning their backs on him. In 627 BC, the prophet Jeremiah predicts that Jerusalem will fall and lose everything because they have forsaken their relationship with God. The prophecy was fulfilled 40 years later 586 BC) when King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon sent his army to attack and conquer Jerusalem. The people held out for some time, but the city was destroyed along with the Temple and the outer wall of the city. Another 40 years go by, (537 BC) and the people of Israel become active again and desire to see the Temple restored. This would be impossible had it not been placed on King Cyrus’ heart to build a Temple to honor the LORD in Jerusalem. The Collision of Hope and Loss. The youngest amo ...