Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and
sisters of mine, you did for me.
The room was splashed with an assortment of enchanting
colors as women in beautiful saris scurried around, completing the final
touches for a fundraising event. Formerly from India, these women now live in
the USA. Yet they remain concerned for their native country. Upon hearing about
the financial situation of a Christian school for autistic children in India,
they not only heard the need, but they also took it to heart and responded.
Nehemiah did not allow his comfortable position in life as
cupbearer and confidant to the most powerful man at that time to nullify his
concerns for his countrymen. He talked to people who had just come from
Jerusalem to find out the condition of the city and its citizens (Neh. 1:2). He
learned that “those who survived the exile . . . are in great trouble and
disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned
with fire” (v. 3).
Nehemiah’s heart broke. He mourned, fasted, and prayed,
asking God to do something about the terrible conditions (v. 4). God enabled
Nehemiah to return to Jerusalem to lead the rebuilding effort (2:1-8).
Nehemiah accomplished great things for his people because he
asked great things of a great God and relied on Him. May God open our eyes to
the needs of those around us, and may He help us to become passionate and
creative problem-solvers who bless others.
Father, there are great needs all around us. We choose not
to give in to despair or apathy, but look to You for help in doing the task at
hand.
Those who walk with God won’t run from the needs of others.
Nehemiah is remembered for his part in the rebuilding of the
walls of Jerusalem. Today’s passage is the beginning of that project. Notice
Nehemiah’s first response to the news about the condition of Jerusalem. He
stops everything else and spends time in prayer (1:5). Never a bad first step
in any situation.
Ref: http://odb.org
December 29, 2015
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