Pray and Work, the Inspiring Example of NehemiahSample

Building together

“After him Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired another section from the door of the house of Eliashib to the end of the house of Eliashib. After him the priests, the men of the surrounding area, repaired.” (Nehemiah 3:21-22)

The people of Jerusalem wanted to rebuild the city walls. Chapter 3 of the book of Nehemiah tells how all kinds of different people contributed their part. Some were priests, others district chiefs, goldsmiths or perfumers. These people were not experienced builders! Yet they managed to repair the city walls in a short time. Each was responsible for a piece, so that together they could repair the entire city wall.

I see in this story a beautiful parallel to the church of Christ. In the worldwide church, there are all kinds of people, too. Most are not trained to “work in the church” as a professional, they are people with very different gifts and tasks. Yet every member of the church may be employed in the service of God, perhaps in positions they never expected beforehand. Believers are united by their common purpose and commitment to the Lord God. This is a spiritual unity.

Working together in unity is not only efficient, it also expresses unity to the outside world. That was important for the builders in Jerusalem, to form a front towards hostile populations in the neighborhood. But it is also important for churches. Jesus wants us to be one, as He and the Father are one (see John 17:22-23).

Are you a member of a church? How does unity take shape in your congregation?