Nehemiah 11:3-24 – Living in the center of God’s will

Nehemiah 11:3-24 enumerates a list of the people, mainly leaders, who came to dwell in Jerusalem. This same list was also given in 1 Chronicles 9:1-34 with some variation. Verses 3-9 listed the names of those from Judah and Benjamin while those listed in verses 10-21 were mainly priests, Levites, and gatekeepers. In the register of the returnees from exile 468 were the sons of Judah, 928 were the sons of Benjamin, 822 were priests, 284 were Levites and 172 were gatekeepers and others.

Terms like “able men (6) and valiant warriors (14)” were used to describe some of these people who came to dwell in Jerusalem. These could well be the wealthy or military people. Jerusalem was twice described as the holy city, once in verse 1 and the other in verse 18. Verses 22-24 tell us that the king of Persia played a role in keeping this post-exilic community organized. He assigned his representatives to supervise and oversee the work of the Levites.

Admit it or not, a list of names like this can be boring and uninteresting to read. The question that comes to mind is what can we learn from a list bearing the names of the people who went to dwell in Jerusalem? While some who chose to dwell there were volunteers, many were there because lots were cast and they were chosen. The volunteers of course deserved to be mentioned for the choice they made. But it must not be forgotten that those who were appointed by lots had something to sacrifice to move to dwell there. All these remind us that in the service of God, it is better to willingly give ourselves to serve Him. Whatever the case, sacrifices must always be made to ensure the progress of God’s community. A list like this is heartening because while men may not see the sacrifices one makes, God takes note of everyone who cares to give up all to stay in the center of His will and purpose. Are we one of them?