Read 3 John 3:2. Whenever Kingdom reformers seek to rebuild and restore communities, the ultimate goal is to see God’s shalom accomplished among all the people. The Hebrew word shalom means peace and wholeness in an all encompassing term; good health, long life, prosperity, and harmony in life. It also is both personal and communal and you see that throughout the restoration of Jerusalem. Not only were the walls rebuilt, but the whole community was reestablished in spiritual and physical wholeness.

• Where are you experiencing shalom in your life? Which areas are in turmoil or feel broken?
• In your opinion what communal part of Dayton is in most need of shalom?

Read Hosea 4:6. The vitality of cities is usually measured by the strength of their communities, and healthy communities consist of character, culture and commerce. To rebuild any community you must first restore character in its people. Just as people are destroyed by the lack of knowledge, knowledge and education restore character by strengthening minds, self-esteem and ability. It is the foundation for any and all success.

• How has knowledge or education helped you the most in life?
• How do you continually learn or build your level of knowledge? Do you need to become more committed to life-long learning?

Read Nehemiah 2:18 & 4:14. When character has been built it creates both an attitude of teamwork and of faith & perseverance. This attitude is critical if you want to be successful and productive in this world and keep from falling into the many destructive places of life.

• Describe a time you were part of a team that created or accomplished something outstanding?
• How has working on or with a team helped build your character?

Whenever the character of people is restored, then culture is revived in the community. In rebuilding a city, reviving the culture is a must. Culture consists of arts, music, sports, technology, etc, but most of all people. Culture revives when a community of ordinary people uses their strengths and gifts to honor God and bless others. When people are operating in their God given gifts and strengths, it creates an atmosphere of creativity and innovation. This is key to growing and maintaining any healthy community.

• How has the culture of arts, music, sports, technology, etc. blessed you in your life?
• Do you currently use your gifts to bless others in your community? What do you do?

Read Nehemiah 7:70-73. Creativity and innovation creates a thriving economy and draws people to want to live and invest their lives and resources in that place. Dayton was once known for its great innovation and once thrived with prosperity and productive people. Today, Dayton is in a great time of transition and you are called to write the next pages of history as you become a part of rebuilding this once great city.

• Are currently in a place that allows you to be innovative or creative? How can God use your creativity to bless our community and world?
• Will you/your cell group commit to being a part of restoring education/character in a Dayton school this year?