The Journey Home

No fixed feast day in the calendar

Led by Zerubbabel, God's people joyfully return to Jerusalem.

Zerubbabel leads the people back to Jerusalem

Led by Zerubbabel, a group of over 40,000 people courageously left their place of exile to make the long journey back to the land of their ancestors. This was no easy trip, but they were driven by hope and faith in God’s promise. Upon arrival, instead of immediately focusing on personal interests, they gathered to build an altar to offer burnt offerings to God. Songs of praise rose up, mingled with the joy of seeing the holy city being restored. They offered sacrifices of thanksgiving to God for delivering them from their chains, marking a new beginning for His chosen people in the promised land.

Prayer

A Pilgrimage to God Within Community

The Christian life is a pilgrimage back to God. The journey of the Israelites reminds us to keep turning toward Him.
We do not walk alone. We move forward within a community of faith, supporting one another.
Worshiping God is the first priority. Offering thanksgiving immediately upon arrival shows they placed God above all else.

When we put God first, every difficulty in our journey becomes lighter.

Prayer

Lord, walk with me on every path, that I may always keep You as the priority in my life. Amen.

The text on this page is the card in the Catholic Information app, word for word.