I notice two types of workers at coffee shops. The most common appears uninterested in the customer standing at the counter (me) and punches in my order with boredom. The second type greets me with enthusiasm, asks about my day and smiles through the process. A cup of coffee tastes much better from the hand of a cheerful barista.
The book of Nehemiah tells the fascinating story about rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. Led by returning exiles, the citizens started moving rock. People with all sorts of skills step forward, including perfumers and goldsmiths.
In the long list of volunteers, one stands out for his fervent attitude—Baruch son of Zabbai zealously repaired another section.
Only Baruch garnered the description of zealous. The word means he burned with intensity, or he glowed as he went to work.
I wonder what brought this response out of Baruch? Was the rebuilding of the wall the fulfillment of a long-delayed dream? Did the wall represent years of prayers finally answered? Or did the task present an unexpected opportunity to step into God’s plan and rebuild part of the holy city?
Baruch recognized the hand of God. Even more than his neighbors, Baruch sensed his work on the wall displayed the goodness of the Lord to his people, the nations around them and the generations to follow. Baruch knew he contributed to a great undertaking and the glow leaked out.
Baruch caught the vision. Where do you and I need the Lord to give us fresh eyes? It’s a worthy prayer to ask the Lord to burn with the zeal of Baruch as we take part shoulder to shoulder in his work.
Nehemiah 3 in reading the Bible cover to cover in 2022
Photo by Tyler Nix
Just getting back from Ivory Coast with 34 other people, the Ivorian CRU staff are a great example of your devotion today. Not only are they committed to Gods work, they do it with joy, such a great encouragement.
Such a great example of a glow in the work. I had the privilege of visiting Ivory Coast and experienced the same joy and encouragement. Sounds like a great trip!