And they said to me, “The remnant there in the province who had survived the exile is in great trouble and shame. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are destroyed by fire.”
After the long captivity at the hands of the Babylonians, the Jews were permitted to return to Jerusalem. Ezra led the rebuilding of the temple so God could be worshiped for his deliverance. The law was read and there was repentance. Nehemiah came later to find that there was much work still to be done but the people had lost the unity that is needed to accomplish God’s purpose. The most important part of an ancient city was its walls. It protected the inhabitants and sent a message to enemies that the city is strong. Nehemiah was called to rebuild the walls and remind their enemies that Jerusalem was still God’s Holy City on a Hill.
At some point, life on earth may return to normal though there is no guarantee. Division is rampant and it is like gaps in the walls. There is much rebuilding to do. We must restore the church so God can be worshiped properly and his Son Jesus Christ can be proclaimed. We must rediscover the Bible and repent. We must rebuild unity so we can work shoulder to shoulder to rebuild the walls of his city. There is great trouble and shame but it can be repaired. This will show those who would oppose us that this is the body of Christ of which Jesus is the head and it is so strong that the gates of Hell will not prevail against it.
Prevailing is our job.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church