Haggai is prophesying around 520 years before Jesus and at a time when his people are in turmoil. Haggai’s people, the Jews, have been through the hell of exile and now, as they look to return and rebuild, things aren’t quite working out for them. Haggai’s message is answering the question: 'why?'

In some ways we are in a similar position. We find ourselves returning after the troubles of lockdowns and were looking ahead with anticipation and a little apprehension to what 2023 might have in store. Haggai’s message to 'Build the House’, to honour God in the rebuilding of your lives, is precisely what we need to bear in mind. His message is applicable on the national scale and on the personal scale. It is true of our families and true of our churches.

If we want to know God’s blessing, God’s glory and God’s presence in 2023 then we need to Build the House.