“And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps.”
—Nehemiah 12:27
God seeks worshippers.
Jesus said so to the woman at the well.
Nehemiah lived it.
The time had come to dedicate the rebuilt wall of Jerusalem. It marked the successful completion of a long-term project. The people had worked, prayed, persevered, and overcome opposition.
Now it was time to celebrate.
Every celebration needs celebrants.
The Levites were scattered throughout the land, but they were the priests of God. Their rightful place at such a moment was in Jerusalem, leading the people in worship.
So, they were sought out and brought home to the place of praise.
They gathered for a dedication marked by gladness and thanksgiving. They brought their musical instruments and employed their voices, abilities, and energy in joyful worship.
The people had done the work of rebuilding, but God had supplied everything they needed to complete it. He provided the strength, resources, leadership, protection, and perseverance.
Now the task was finished.
It was time to give thanks.
God is still gathering His people. He calls us together in gladness to worship Him and offer our gratitude.
Still today, the celebration needs celebrants.
We are a priestly people. We are worshippers, leaders, and participants. We are called to employ our instruments of praise—our voices, gifts, abilities, and energy—with glad hearts and grateful attitudes.
All that we have received and accomplished has been made possible by the provision and grace of God.
There is a time to work, a time to persevere, and a time to rebuild.
There is also a time to stop, gather, remember, give thanks, and celebrate.
Let us worship God with gladness. Let us give thanks—and never take His goodness for granted.
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