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CHAPTER 12 (ESV)

27 And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites in all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem to celebrate the dedication with gladness, with thanksgivings and with singing, with cymbals, harps, and lyres. 28 And the sons of the singers gathered together from the district surrounding Jerusalem and from the villages of the Netophathites; 29 also from Beth-gilgal and from the region of Geba and Azmaveth, for the singers had built for themselves villages around Jerusalem.

REFLECTION:

During the era of King David, Israel was a vibrant and God-fearing country. The returning Israelites wanted to rebuild Jerusalem to be the centre of future restoration of the country. Therefore, they willingly offered themselves and the City of Jerusalem to God. The Israelites joyfully offered the walls to God in various ways because they finally saw the fruit of the great project after many years. Other than celebrating the completion of the project, this “Ceremony of Accomplishment” also signified a new beginning. Reflect on the reason of the joy for the Israelites. When did you experience great joy? Do you feel the great joy now that you are God’s child and a new being? How will you live a holy life filled with hope to start the new page of your life?

PRAYER:

Give thanks to God for His salvation and be joyful for your life has been “accomplished”. You are now the child of God and you will be with Him in eternal glory. At the same time, it also means that you are a new creation, the old has passed away and the new has come. Ask God to train you, guide you, and help your new life grow continuously to maturity.

HYMN:

No Longer Slaves – www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8TkUMJtK5k