So often in life when we anticipate something we can build it up in our mind so that the actual reality can’t possibly meet our expectations. Something like that happened to the Jewish people as they returned from exile. The Holy Land had been part of their dreams for almost 50 years and when they actually arrived they were disappointed. The Prophet Haggai asks them to change their outlook. Now thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways! You have sown much, but have brought in little; you have eaten, but have not been satisfied; You have drunk, but have not been exhilarated; have clothed yourselves, but not been warmed. The prophetic solution is to stop focusing on oneself and think of the larger community.
