Day 19

These same things are also told in the records and in Nehemiah’s memoirs, as well as how he founded a library and collected the books about the kings and the prophets, the books of David, and the royal letters about votive offerings. 2 Maccabees 2:13

As we’ve read, life for the Israelites has had its up and its downs. They have had good leaders and bad; they have been exiled, endured battles, sinned, been forgiven, and sinned again… It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions! Nehemiah, again, is not in Jesus’s direct genealogy, but his role in the life of Israel is very important, and certainly, he was a part of the family of God. Up until now, we have read about the work of kings, priests, and prophets who have spoken for God and led Israel from exile, sin, and ruin, but Nehemiah wasn’t a king, priest, or prophet — he was just a regular guy. Today, we’d call him a “layman.” 

Nehemiah was a hard and loyal worker who loved the Lord. He worked his way up in the ranks to eventually hold the position of “cupbearer” in the court of King Artaxerxes. A “cup-bearer” was the guy who poured the drinks for the king. I know that sounds strange; why would the person who poured the king lemonade need a special title and be considered a high-ranking official?! Well, during those times, sometimes people handled politics through poison. There were some people who would want a king (even a good one) dead and they’d slip poison into his drink to kill him! Nehemiah’s role as a cup-bearer means that the king trusted him with his life. 

At this time in the Story of Salvation, Jerusalem had endured many battles. A bad fire had destroyed the city walls and gates and damaged much of the city’s infrastructure. When Nehemiah found out how poorly the city of Jerusalem was fairing, he jumped into action! He knew he wasn’t a priest, prophet, or king — but that didn’t stop him. Because he was a trustworthy and loyal man, the king supported Nehemiah in his efforts to restore the city of Jerusalem. He repaired the city walls and invited Israelites back into the city to help it flourish once more! 

Nehemiah’s story reminds us that God uses people in all different jobs in His work. Nehemiah wasn’t discouraged that he didn’t have the anointing of a priest, the crown of a king, or the voice of a prophet — he was a “layman” who loved and served God and his neighbors well! We are all called to use the gifts and vocation God has given us to serve Him in our own unique way.