Nehemiah- Rebuilding and Renewalනියැදිය

Today’s reading covers two chapters of the on-going story of Jerusalem under Nehemiah’s reforms. We are covering some familiar territory- but it bears repeating again. Notice the details given of families- various descendants of Judah and Benjamin- the priests, Levites and gatekeepers. Again it occurs to me that the narrative has firmly shifted from Nehemiah and the rebuilding of walls and gates, to the role of worship leaders and priests. The wall may be completed in the physical, but now comes time for spiritual dedication.

Two groups of Levites and priests and musicians are formed: one, led by Ezra, walking southward on top of the wall; the other heading northward led by Nehemiah (12:31-39). The temple is the destination where “many sacrifices were offered” (v43).

Imagine the scene: singing fills the air as choirs circumnavigate the whole city worshipping and praising God, the people are full of wonder and joy, and the population is brimming (11:1-2). Despite the ‘impossibilities’ of securing the city of Jerusalem and re-establishing worship of Yahweh; despite the inexperience of Nehemiah, and in the face of mounting opposition throughout the process, God has seen to it that not only are the walls and gates rebuilt, but there is a great throng of people there to celebrate it. I have no doubt that angels also joined in rejoicing and praising God. The LORD God is glorified, the people are safe, and a great victory has been won!

Reflect:

Spend some time thanking and praising the Lord for His faithfulness throughout the generations.

“The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away” (v43). “God desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim 2:4). Let your heart be stirred to believe that the sound of rejoicing in our own community will continue to increase, that many more people will be saved in the days to come. Get a vision for spiritual awakening in our own city and commit to prayer those around you that need to come to the knowledge of the truth.