“Meremoth son of Uriah and grandson of Hakkoz rebuilt another section of the wall extending from the door of Eliashib’s house to the end of the house.“
Nehemiah 3:21
Last time we looked in on Ezer and Baruch as they rebuilt their sections – and learned more about our Helper God. How this Spirit inside is zealous to strengthen us for good. Today we see a man named Meremoth being diligent to build his large, assigned section.
On our trusty map we are still at number 6, the House of Eliashib. I learned from this source that the high priest’s residence was located on the city wall above the Kidron Valley. Interesting to have a house actually on the wall. Here’s a picture to give you an idea:
See how the home seems to be built right into a larger structure? This is likely how Eliashib’s house connected to the wall. Repairing his home and repairing the City Wall was one and the same.
It strikes me as poignant given the day in which we live. We are a much more independent culture, normally thinking through only our own group’s needs. And, indeed, the Hebrew word for the end of (Eliashib’s house) is taklith – boundary, end, limit. There is only so much we can steward well, and care about deeply in our hearts. Just as there is a limit to how far the high priest’s home reaches on the city wall, God gives us specific stewardships He will ask us about one day.
But there is another, Spirit-required part of this life in Him. To live beyond ourselves and our human resources and capacities. To trust that – by His strength inside us – He will help us live outside our four walls, our like-minded people group, our culture, our country. To take care of one another and steward Shalom anywhere He asks of us.
Mind you, I’m writing this to myself. I regularly struggle with trusting He will provide the emotional, mental, spiritual strength to love beyond what is comfortable. To trust Him through me rather than my own paltry resources.
But every time I trust Him He comes through. Of course. Jesus did everything necessary to give us all we need for life and godliness. Oh to be sure, healthy boundaries will prevent burn out and resentment and fractured relationships. He indeed leads us beside green pastures and quiet waters.
But this Good Shepherd also calls us to a life that requires risk. Most often to our comfort zones. Otherwise we might never rely on Him. Let’s walk in faith, love outside ourselves, and watch Him show up. I’m coming with you.
And He’s right there waiting.