Definition and Context:
A Call for Restoration refers to the biblical theme and divine invitation for the renewal and return to a state of spiritual, moral, and communal wholeness. This concept is prevalent throughout the Bible, where God calls His people to return to Him, repent from their ways, and restore their relationship with Him and with one another. Restoration is often linked with themes of repentance, forgiveness, and divine intervention.

Old Testament References:

1. 2 Chronicles 7:14 · This verse is a quintessential example of a call for restoration. God speaks to Solomon, saying, "if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land." This passage highlights the conditions for restoration: humility, prayer, seeking God, and repentance.

2. Jeremiah 30:17 · The prophet Jeremiah conveys God's promise of restoration to Israel: "For I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the LORD, because they have called you an outcast: 'It is Zion, for whom no one cares!'" Here, restoration is depicted as healing and the reversal of misfortune.

3. Joel 2:25-26 · In the context of a locust plague, God promises, "I will repay you for the years eaten by locusts—the swarming locust, the young locust, the destroying locust, and the devouring locust—My great army that I sent against you. You will have plenty to eat, until you are satisfied, and you will praise the name of the LORD your God, who has worked wonders for you." This passage emphasizes God's ability to restore what has been lost or destroyed.

New Testament References:

1. Acts 3:19-21 · Peter calls for repentance and promises times of refreshing: "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus, the Christ appointed for you. Heaven must receive Him until the time comes for God to restore everything, as He promised long ago through His holy prophets."

2. Galatians 6:1 · Paul instructs the church on the restoration of individuals: "Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." This highlights the communal aspect of restoration, emphasizing gentleness and self-awareness.

3. 1 Peter 5:10 · Peter assures believers of God's restorative power: "And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore you, secure you, strengthen you, and establish you." This verse underscores the promise of restoration after trials.

Theological Significance:
The theme of restoration is central to the biblical narrative, reflecting God's desire to bring His creation back to its intended purpose and harmony. It encompasses both individual and communal aspects, addressing personal sin and societal injustice. Restoration is not merely a return to a previous state but often involves transformation and renewal, leading to a deeper relationship with God and a more profound understanding of His purposes.

Practical Implications:
Believers are encouraged to participate in the process of restoration by seeking God's guidance, repenting of their sins, and working towards reconciliation with others. The call for restoration also involves social justice, as seen in the prophetic literature, where the restoration of Israel is linked with the establishment of justice and righteousness.