Pastor Josh Rhone preaches on January 29, 2023, at Zion Church, a United Methodist congregation, in York, Pennsylvania. This weekend we look at Nehemiah 3. The walls and gates of Jerusalem lie in ruin. Nehemiah is cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I, of Persia. Although he was born in captivity and despite having never been to Jerusalem, Nehemiah's heart breaks over the brokenness that has been reported. God stirs his heart. Nehemiah has the courage to care. He not only weeps over the situation and cries out to God, but he experiences God's leading. So he, with vulnerability, shares his concern with the king; requests safe passage and supplies; and has the courage to leave all behind to go. In today's Scripture, Nehemiah journeys to Jerusalem and, in so doing, faces opposition. Yet, he doesn't allow the opposition to get the better of him and he doesn't allow the opposition to stop him in his tracks. Today, we look at how a community, of diverse gifts and skills, joins with Nehemiah in the work of rebuilding the walls. Goldsmiths and perfume-makers; priests and homeowners and daughters –– all join in this work. When God is doing a new thing, it includes everyone! As chapter 4 begins, opposition mounts. Sanballat & Tobiah are determined to oppose the work that is taking place –– the new thing that God is doing. 

When God is doing a new thing in our lives, opposition tends to rear its ugly head. How can we, with confidence and faith, press forward; persevere; and move on toward the goal? Listen in, as we learn from the example of Nehemiah this week!

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