Ezra-Nehemiah: Fulfillment
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
Everyone knew that the work had been done with God’s help. (Nehemiah 6:15-16)
Why is it that the antisocial cannot see that their end is in their own work? Why is it that the Sanballats and Geshems among us do not see that the darkness in which they operate will eventually give way to the Light, to the Hope, to the Promise? The wise do not take flight – as Nehemiah did not flee. The wise do not fear the shameful stories, the discrediting talk, the false prophecies. The wise remain calm and firm in their God. Letters, tweets, posts and emails may fly, but in the end the truth will stand alone, and everyone will fully understand who has been the plotter and who has been the wrongfully blasphemed. In God’s time and in God’s plan those who abide by the Covenant, those who strive each day to put down roots by the bank of the river and soar up to the heights, to the light will bear fruit.
Psalm 1 is a mini Bible in that it describes the person of God who suffers yet withstands the onslaught – not through their own work but by the grace and protection of God. They flourish and prosper, despite the treachery. They yield fruit in season. Their leaves do not wither, and whatever they do prospers. The Lord watches over the way of the just, but the way of the wicked leads to ruin.
And so today we pray.
Lord, keep me ever in your ways. Steer me clear of the paths of the scoffers. Abide with me as I strive to abide with you. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Adapted from a reflection written on September 16, 2007.
The Noontimes 