Read Nehemiah 11 – 12
And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps (Neh. 12:27).
There was a great celebration after the completion of the wall of Jerusalem. There was definitely much reason to celebrate. They had read from the histories and the books of the law and experienced a national revival.
The Lord had once again blessed the nation of Israel. God touched the hearts of foreign kings to allow the reconstruction in Jerusalem. God had also raised up leaders like Nehemiah and Ezra out of virtual obscurity.
The foundation was laid both physically and spiritually. The work had been done on the walls of the city and in the hearts of the people. The people had looked to the past and learned from it. They had seen their present state and repented of it. For the first time in a long time, the people of Israel had reason to look to the future with hope. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope (Rom. 15:4).
The call was placed throughout the land. The Levites were all to come to Jerusalem. They were being brought in so the people might be atoned for, and the walls and gates could be prayed over for purification.
We celebrate for many reasons in life. Birthdays, anniversaries and holidays just scratch the service of our reasons for celebration. All these are perfectly fine reasons for a party or get together. We should celebrate the lives and special occasions of our loved ones.
However, there is an even better reason to celebrate. The greatest celebration should come when one who was lost in sin comes to know Christ as Savior. One who was on his way to hell has been set free and now has a place reserved in heaven. Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins (James 5:20).
We should truly rejoice over the salvation of a soul. We should also be burdened for those who are not saved. The truth of life is that many lives will end today. Some will pass with an assurance of heaven. Others will face eternal death in hell's prison.
How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him (Heb. 2:3).
Thought for Today:
The Lord of glory deserves our unceasing praise and thanksgiving.
Word Studies:
11:16 outward business, external business of the Temple; 11:24 was at the king's hand, was advisor, administrator of the king; 12:44 that waited, who officiated, ministered, kept the watches
Christ Revealed:
By the priests and Levites who purified (sanctified) themselves and the people (Neh. 12:30). Christ our High Priest, through His perfect sacrifice, purified His believers by His Word. Now ye are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you (John 15:3; 17:17).
Prayer Suggestion: Intercede for others (Ex. 32:31-32).
Optional Reading: 2 Corinthians 12
Memory Verse for the Week: Ecclesiastes 5:4
