Nehemiah’s Heart: January 11, 2026
Finding Beauty in the Rubble: A Look at Nehemiah
Hello! If you missed this past Sunday’s service, Pastor Michael kicked off an exciting new eight-week series on the Book of Nehemiah. After spending a long time in the New Testament exploring the life of Jesus in Luke, we’re heading back to the Old Testament to see how God works through "ruins" to bring about transformation.
Here’s a quick recap of the heart behind the message:
A Story of Exile and Return
Pastor Michael caught us up on the history: Israel had turned away from God, leading to their exile and the devastation of Jerusalem. While some had returned to rebuild the temple under King Cyrus, news reached Nehemiah—who was serving as the king's cupbearer in Persia—that the people were still in "great trouble and disgrace" because the city walls remained broken and the gates burned.
The Power of a Broken Heart
What makes Nehemiah such a compelling leader isn't just his ability to build; it’s his ability to weep. When he heard about his people’s suffering, he didn't just point fingers. Instead, he:
Fasted and prayed for days.
Took responsibility, confessing the sins of his people and his own family as if they were his own.
Held God to His word, reminding Him of His promises to gather and restore His people.
From Prayer to Action
After four months of persistent prayer, God opened a door. Nehemiah risked his life by showing sadness in the presence of King Artaxerxes. In a "shotgun prayer" moment, he asked the king for permission to rebuild Jerusalem—and the king said yes! Not only did he get permission, but he received funding and safe passage because the "gracious hand of God" was upon him.
Why This Matters Today
Pastor Michael reminded us that Nehemiah is a "Messianic shadow"—a picture of Jesus Christ. Just as Nehemiah left the comfort of the palace to help his broken people, Jesus saw us in our "disgrace" and came to build us an eternal home.
As we move forward this year, let’s ask God to give us Nehemiah’s heart: a heart that breaks for the lost and broken in our own communities.
