God Speaking

“…They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.”  So they began this good work”

(Nehemiah 2: 18)

The world has been turned upside down by this vicious corona virus. All our lives have had to change to protect ourselves and others. Jobs have been lost. Children denied school and fun playing with friends. Old people shut away from family even though they struggle with the last days of dying, it feels as if our lives are in pieces and over all the chaos is fear of what the future holds. Emotions have become raw and deep, down resentment has erupted and ugly racism has surfaced and made us all rethink of our own values, especially when we are followers of Jesus. So how will we pick up the pieces when life returns?

The story of Nehemiah is a wonderful example of how the children of Israel rallied behind Nehemiah to do just that, rebuild after chaos. They had been exiled to Persia, but a few tribes had been able to stay, but life was nothing like before they were conquered. Jerusalem was in ruins the walls knocked down and those left behind constantly being attacked. Nehemiah was a cup bearer to the king of Persia and after Nehemiah learnt what was happening to his fellow countrymen he prayed to God and begged him to have pity on them. After praying Nehemiah was brave enough to as k the King could he go back to Jerusalem. When he returned, he filled the people with hope and told them their gracious God was with them they banded together to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. They were taunted by their enemies, but Nehemiah reminded them.

“Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your daughters.” (Nehemiah 4: 14)

In the midst of the chaos we are experiencing, we too are finding those who are negative and full of dire possibilities of what is to come e.g. life will never be the same, we will have this virus for years, our children will always be damaged , our economy will be ruined. We need to listen to the writer of Ecclesiastes.

“… a time to tear down and a time to build.” (Ecclesiastes 3: 3)

When we rebuild, we need to look again how Nehemiah helped the people to have the energy to rebuild. Firstly, trust in our gracious God and allow him to direct us. Secondly, work together and bring about harmony with those we have been made aware of during this crisis, those who are different from us, the disadvantaged, the old who need tender care, not neglect or abuse.  The lonely neighbours we were not aware of until we found out they have nobody to shop for them.

Often when we need to rebuild, we need to use new bricks that will give us a firm foundation, so let us plan ahead to use new ways in our lives to correct the mistakes we have been making, so when the time comes, we will build with enthusiasm and remember Jesus’ words

“My command is this. Love each another as I have loved you.” (John 15: 12)