May 9, 2025 - Nehemiah 11-13

“And as for the villages, with their fields, some of the people of Judah lived in Kiriath-arba and its villages, and in Dibon and its villages, and in Jekabzeel and its villages, and in Jeshua . . . and in . . . and in . . .” (11:25-26 ).  These were in addition to those who came back and lived in Jerusalem and its newly repaired walls.  At the dedication of the wall, the people “offered great sacrifices that day and rejoiced, for God had made them rejoice with great joy; the women and children also rejoiced.  And the joy of Jerusalem was heard far away” (12:43).  And, though the people would quickly fall back into sin prove to be unfaithful, once again, Israel’s God showed himself to be faithful.  Jeremiah had prophesied, “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will visit you, and I will fulfill to you my promise and bring you back to this place” (Jeremiah 29:10).  God promised and, once again, he did exactly what he said he would do.  Seventy years of exile and, to the year, the people returned.

Rejoice today with one accord,

sing out with exultation;

rejoice and praise our mighty Lord,

whose arm hath brought salvation.

His works of love proclaim

the greatness of his name;

for he is God alone,

who hath his mercy shown:

let all his saints adore him!   -- H. W. Baker (1861)