“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Meshezabel, Zadok, Jaddua…”

Nehemiah 10:21

Last time we looked quite closely at moths, interestingly enough, and praised Jesus He is the ultimate destroyer of destruction. Today we get to dive into the next three leaders’ names.

To begin we have Meshezabel a name to which we were first introduced in Nehemiah 3:4. It means “God delivers” from shezab: leave, free, deliver, and azab: to leave, forsake, loose.

There are so many things to which we are called to be faithful. We will stand before God and give an account for how we remained faithful in relationships with healthy boundaries, committed to promises, and saw projects through to completion. However, there will be things He will ask us about that we were told to leave: bitterness, unbelief, pride, injustice, bigotry. Things to which He opened prison doors and encouraged us to forsake: generational sin, worldly wisdom, selfishness, myopic vision.

Hear me as someone who, like our pastor said this morning, does not want to be corrected. Does not want to be wrong. These do not always feel like an invitation to more, but they are. These are one way tickets to freedom and joy, purpose and genuine community. Being able to loose ourselves from their chains brings lightness, intimacy, and connection.

And do you not love to Whom our leader’s name points as the One delivering? Praise God He’s not asking us to pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps. We don’t have to behavior modification ourselves out of these things alone. We get to cooperate with the type of power that brings back a pulse where there is none, lifts a resurrected God-Man up to the heavens, and seats Him at El Elyon’s right hand. Serious power. Let us repent and cooperate.

Next we have Zadok whose name we first saw in Nehemiah 3:29. It comes from tsadeq – just, righteous, acquit, made you right, properly restore, proved right, vindicated, cleanse, clear self, make right.

This is such a fascinating definition as I hear about the recent movie, Just Mercy. With the brokenness of our nation’s justice system and the knowledge many are unjustly sentenced to prison, words such as “acquit, proved right, clear self, vindicated” are especially poignant.

Can you even imagine having multiple witnesses who prove you did not commit a crime, yet being sentenced to death anyway? Or watching as your neighborhood and friends and family are under constant surveillance while others roam free? Or knowing you are part of a tough on crime policy which disproportionately affects you?

I’m so grateful we have a Savior Who does know. And more than that, moves His followers to do something about it. Sometimes the embodiment of our faith hits me afresh and I cannot believe how grateful I am to serve a God Who came to serve, love a God Who experienced it all. He is so far from aloof and tender in mercy at our broken condition. He has made us right, properly restores us to the Father that we might join Him in restoring our world. Cleansed from sin and in right standing because of our Jehovah Tsidkenu. 

Let’s worship again today. Then let our worship make us wise advocates.

Finally in today’s verse we have the leader Jaddua. His name comes from yada – to know, ability, acknowledge, bring forth, chosen, clearly understand, consider, concern, discern, experience, take notice, teach, understand, very well know, well aware.

Speaking of wise, our final leader’s name seems to have it all: knowledge, skills, discernment, and perception. Wonder if he lived up to his name? Wonder if we let His Spirit inside us bring forth such treasures in our lives?

Help us acknowledge every ability You give us. Grant us Your gift of discernment, and patience to consider and take notice what You show us. Teach us and give us opportunities to pass on the lessons. And may we be well aware of where You’re moving in and around us.

And thank You that Your works are wonderful – and we can know that very well.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir…”

Nehemiah 10:20

Last time we saw some leaders whose names showed us the fruitful margins. Today we see the next three leaders of our returned exiles.

First up is Magpiash whose name only occurs in this verse. It is from nagaph (smite, strike, dash, hurt, slay) and ash (moth). So it basically means “exterminator of the moth.”

As someone who rarely thinks about moths, I looked up some information on how they are good for our ecosystem. Apparently they are not simply the small grayish insect we tend to think of. There are “11,000 moth species in the United States alone,” meaning we could confuse these guys for more colorful butterflies.

In addition, they are an important part of the food chain, particularly for bats and birds. And due to their hairy bodies, they easily pick up pollen from whatever flower they land on and distribute it in flight. (Source)

But my favorite tidbit is the following:

“Moths also play a vital role in telling us about the health of our environment, like the canary in the coalmine. Since they are so widespread and found in so many different habitats, and are so sensitive to changes, moths are particularly useful as indicator species. Monitoring their numbers and ranges can give us vital clues to changes in our own environment, such as the effects of new farming practices, pesticides, air pollution and climate change…” (Source)

If that isn’t a word for our burning planet today, I’m not sure what is.

Now that we have seen the positives of this insect, let’s dive into the fact that in the Word, moths are a reference to decay and destruction.

“When you discipline a man
    with rebukes for sin,
you consume like a moth what is dear to him;
    surely all mankind is a mere breath!”

Psalm 39:11

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Matthew 6:19-21

So in our case today, Magpiash’s name would be “the exterminator of destruction.”

Sounds like Shalom to me.

In our war-weary world we are desperate for peace. Peace for our broken promises and broken relationships; peace for our hurting bodies and soul anxieties. We yearn for peace from selfish ambition and generations of conflict.

“Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it.”

James 4:1-2 (MSG)

Thank You, Jesus, You destroyed ultimate destruction. We can be secure because of You, even in our rocky tenure on an insecure planet. And what we entrust to You is never destroyed.

Our next name listed is Meshullam which comes from shalam – allied, amends, to be complete or sound, finish, give again, make good, be safe, friendly, reciprocate, recompense, restitution, restore. We have seen this name as a priest, a local, and one standing beside Ezra reading the Word on the platform in Nehemiah 3:4, 3:30, 6:18, 8:4, 10:7.

Today’s leader is likely the man standing beside Ezra as the Law is proclaimed to the people. As I wrote on this name before:

“You may have noticed this word [shalam] looks much like shalom – completeness, soundness, welfare, peace. Shalam seems to be what we as people can do to cooperate with God as He ushers in shalom: finish arguments, make amends; restore what was broken or stolen, and make restitution for injustice done – individually and corporately. To ally ourselves with those who also seek His kingdom come, giving again if necessary. To ask Him to help us find our worth in Him so these things are possible in our naturally self-protective tendencies.”

Yes, His peace will make us one. His kingdom come, His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.

Our final name listed in today’s veres is Hezir, which comes from chazir – swine, boar, enclosed as a hog. Today is one of those days when I question the families who named some of our leaders. Nevertheless, we should ask ourselves what we can learn today from such a definition: swine, boar, enclosed hog.

From what I know from Torah of pigs being unclean for the Israelites, I am quite sure this meaning would not have been popular among our returned exiles. But then again, most of the community was relearning what God’s Law even said for them as His ambassadors to a watching world.

Could the same be said for us in our generation? For those who do not claim to follow Jesus of Nazareth, would watching us give them an appropriate picture of His majesty, beauty, splendor, and worth? Further, would our lives and ultimate allegiances reflect the likes of Daniel, Paul, John or Jeremiah? Finally, would the way we live be a representation of a Kingdom which requires everything and nothing, grows to bless, welcomes with grace, and never ends?

We will never be perfect ambassadors this side of eternity. But in which direction are you headed? Are we headed?

May all see His worth in our ways.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Hariph, Anathoth, Nebai…”

Nehemiah 10:19

Last time we met some of the covenant-signing leaders, letting their name meanings turn us toward a God Who came. Today we see the next three names.

First up is Hariph whose name comes from charaph – to betroth (surrender), reproach, blaspheme, defy, insult, scorn, revile, taunt, expose. Not the loveliest of meanings, huh?

In fact, betroth is the only one which seems joyful. Of course, we all know situations in which marriage is not happy: domestic violence, adultery, abuse. But to be betrothed to a beloved is one of God’s purest gifts.

So what to do with defy, insult, expose? What can such definitions say to us today? My thoughts immediately turn to how opposite they are of the fruit of the Spirit. If we as believers are walking in step with the Spirit inside, taunting, scorning, blaspheming God or others should be the last thing to characterize our lives.

So how are we doing? Does insulting or reviling another sound familiar? If not in our real lives, how about our social media feeds? We are all more prone to swagger when there’s a screen between us and a real live human. But others really will know we are His disciples by our love for each other.

Next signing is Anathoth whose name comes from anah – to testify, answer, respond, sing, shout, announce. What a brilliant name for a leader of God’s people. I love how the first three words of this definition are in response to others.

Have you ever thought about how Peter instructs us to prepare an answer when asked about the hope we have? It implies others will see how we handle hopeless situations and inquire why we still have hope. Do our lives and understanding of the gospel cause others to be dumbfounded at our hope? Can we expectantly hold on during Jesus-promised trials, clinging to Hope Himself? Would others ever take you by the shoulders and go, “What is up? How are you still hopeful?”

I think it should be stated that the question isn’t, “How are you still smiling?” or “How are you so happy?” Genuine gospel hope is comfortable with genuine grief and sorrow. But hope? We can have that no matter what. We are called to it.

The second list of three synonyms are things our lives can display whether others take us by the shoulders or simply ignore us: sing, shout, announce. Horrible atrocities happen daily around this weary globe. As we weep, serve, pray, vote, advocate, and volunteer, may we also announce the only Answer. May He give us songs to sing in the battle. Worship is a form of battle, you know. May our words and art, work and leisure announce Another. May His presence be unmistakable, shouting to all who interact with us.

Now we have Nebai, whose name only occurs in this verse. It “comes from nob – fruit, to produce fruit, literally or figuratively; Nebai: from the margin.”

So beautiful, yes? Not only that a leader’s root meaning is fruitful, but that it would imply this fruit comes from the margins. Sorry if you’re not a Star Wars fan, but our family saw Rise of Skywalker this past weekend. Best line?

“How are they doing this? They don’t have a Navy.”

“Sir, it’s not a navy. It’s just…people.”

Indeed, darkness wants to convince us we’re all alone. Or those in obvious power are calling all the shots. But in the margins is where Jesus shines.

How can you know if you’re paying attention to the margins? Well, since white, middle to upper class men have held the predominate narrative in this country, ask yourself who does not fit that description. Then discover all you can from them. Folks like:

Women of color, disabled people, indigenous folks, Jews, men of color, immigrants, those struggling to keep a job or home or off an addiction. Jesus is at work among those who do not always have an elevated platform. And He promises they’re the happy ones. Let’s learn from them.

As I type this on New Year’s Day, with intentions and goals for the next 12 months, my desire is to not be the same at this time next year. I want contentment with the good and holy discontent with evil. I want to be characterized by prayer, gratitude, and generosity, not selfishness, greed, or gluttony. I want to open the doorway for self-control to reign and for it to flood all facets of my life.

How about you? What fruit would you like your life characterized by? Will your inspiration come from the margins? Will you sing, shout, and testify when appropriate? Will you allow the Spirit’s fruit to bloom in your life?

We don’t need a Navy or even an elaborate plan. We simply get to bow again in 2020, asking for strength, surrendering to His work, joining where He’s moving, and loving Him and others.

Let’s do it together.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Ater, Hezekiah, Azzur,

Hodiah, Hashum, Bezai…”

Nehemiah 10:17-18

Last time we looked into the next several leaders whose names encouraged us to live like our Master is Yah. Today we meet six more leaders of the people who purposed to follow Jehovah.

We begin with Ater whose name means “maimed, to shut up, close, bind, bend, curve, what surrounds, encloses.” We have seen him back in Nehemiah 7:21 when we got to see how God used this root word in the context of protecting His people from harm.

It is one thing to know we are spiritually surrounded, enclosed in the curve of our Father’s strong arm; it is another to experience that joy. While we do not always get to sense His presence binding our wounds or experience the joy of Him seeming to bend down just for us to provide deliverance, if He does grant us that great gift, may we rejoice.

And no matter what circumstances we happen to be in this day, we get the privilege of celebrating He ultimately came, bending down in humility to feel embarrassment and experience excitement. To be angry at injustice and require sleep. It is humble of Him because our flesh is so limiting. And scary. We are fragile and yet so good at attacking one another. And He came down into it. Maiming the enemy, shutting up death, opening wide heaven’s door and enclosing those who choose Him into His family.

Hezekiah is our next listed leader, which is interesting as King Hezekiah is in Ater’s lineage. Likely named after this famous king, our leader’s title means “Yah has strengthened,” from Yah and chazaq – to grow firm or strong, strengthen.

Next we have Azzur whose name means “helpful,” from Azar – to help, ally, further, protect, restrain, support, surround, aid.

Have you ever known a genuine helper? One who seems most satisfied with furthering another’s plan, supporting them with whatever is required? I have and they are often my favorite people. Not desiring the spotlight for themselves, these servants most likely show up when practical aid is needed. They are most living into their spiritual giftedness when others are relieved of certain duties by them so they may fully focus on what they feel called to do.

To me these are the ones who are most at risk of an eye saying to the hand, “I don’t need you.” While sincere helpers are not out for applause, they are likely to be taken for granted. But we certainly notice when they aren’t around! If a group is made up of only those with “out front” giftings, look out. May we all remember our giftings have everything to do with serving each other and honoring God as His Body.

Our next leader listed is Hodiah, which is the feminine form of Yehudi – Jewish. So this essentially means Jewess, which is fascinating. While this refers to a male leader, the meaning points to the female portion of the people.

As I type this on Christmas Eve, my thoughts turn to Mary, along with the male-dominated culture in which she said yes to God.

Do you think she worried about the whispers? What did she think when Joseph decided to divorce her quietly? Did she love him? Was she full of shame or was the knowledge she hadn’t broken her vows enough to keep her head held high? Do you think she wondered about being stoned? Surely she knew if an angel had told her she would birth the Messiah, they would both be spared such a fate.

And I’m so touched by God’s tenderness to give her Elizabeth during these early processing days. And with the reassurance of Elizabeth’s proclamation of the child in her womb being the Lord, Mary, full of the Spirit, could not help but preach of God’s goodness!

Two women, in similarly surprising situations, filled with the Spirit and delighting in God’s choice of them to advance the Kingdom. Yes, God’s plan for women – no matter the current cultural climate – will not be stopped. He always bestows dignity on His daughters.

Our next leader is Hashum which comes from chashman – ambassador, wealthy princes. Such a stark contrast from humble Mary and Joseph to wealthy princes. And yet, some of the highest on the social and economic ladder were seeking the Messiah as well.

What does the fact He came for all do to you? That lowly shepherds and men who could afford to travel months and offer pure gold and costly spices could both find Him? Surely it must speak to us about God drawing all people to Himself. And those who with ears to hear respond by falling on their faces in worship.

Our final leader’s name is of uncertain derivation: Bezai which means “domineering,” perhaps from bus – to tread down, trample (literally or figuratively), loathe, squirm, under foot, be polluted.

I watched The Nativity Story yesterday, which always helps me remember why the Jewish nation was looking so forward to a liberating Messiah. Paying taxes to a polytheistic Ceaser, children taken to pay debts, a tyrannical king killing all little boys in his paranoia, political oversight of worshipping the way Yahweh had commanded.

Yes, the people likely felt trampled and polluted under such a dictatorship. And yet their long-awaited King would avenge not with a sword but servanthood. Though King of all kings He would not wage war as the world does. Instead He trampled the ultimate enemy for all people, underneath His beautiful feet.

I am oh so glad He came for more than politically setting free one nation. And could our current political climate stand to see His will and ways through a larger lens as well? Perhaps the movement and activity of God takes a much wider angle than our tribalistic tendencies? He may even move right past our party lines and pet ideologies – right into the hearts of those who seek more.

It is too small a thing this Christmas to shove the Creator of the Universe, wrapped in swaddling clothes, in a box. Let’s let Him out – He’s not in there anyway, cannot be contained. But for our sakes may we lift the lid and open our eyes to His leading today.

And you can be sure He’ll be found where His glory is of utmost importance.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Bunni, Azgad, Bebai,

Adonijah, Bigvai, Adin…”

Nehemiah 10:15-16

Last time we began our investigation into the leaders of the people who signed a covenant with Yahweh, reminded of how God calls us to justice and authenticity as we follow Him. Today we see the next three names.

First up is Bunni, whose name comes from the same root as Bani from last week: banah – to build/rebuild. While we have seen this root word multiple times lately, I’ve been thinking how appropriate it is to this Advent season.

Building not only implies creating something new, it can refer to an increased longing. We sometimes say the anticipation is building. And while we know Christmas will come, the waiting builds the longing.

And when Christmas is over and there seems a long stretch of winter, the waiting builds longing still. Longing for it all to be made right. Rebuilding our hopes that we will see God move, again, in the new year. Anticipating we will not be ashamed but will reap a harvest as we do not grow weary in doing good. Building and rebuilding in seasonal cycles, over and over, until He comes again.

Our next leader is Azgad whose name means “Gad is mighty” or stern troop. It’s from az (mighty, strong, fierce, powerful, greedy, harsh) and gad (good fortune, invade, raid, crowd in upon – in the sense of distributing).

I think a powerful warrior king is implied in this meaning. And as our exiles returned and rebuilt Jerusalem, then as the prophets went silent and Rome grew mighty, God’s people could not help but hope for such a warrior to come and fight for them. To turn back their enemies and put them on top – with power, influence, and might.

But that wasn’t how He came was it? Though a descendant of David, the Root of Jesse would not sit on an earthly throne. Rather, He came to sheep herders and foreign astrologers, to humble parents and manual labor. And oh, thank You God, He came with a heartbeat and tears, emotions and logic. Able to become one of us yet be the Maker of us all.

His kingdom indeed would have no end, but it would not be of this world or immediately erase our suffering. Fortunately, it would conquer the one thing we needed most: sin and death. Completely mocked it, giving us access to power and right relationship and hope. Yes, a mighty, distributing King indeed.

Our next leader’s name does not give us a trail to follow. It is Bebai, whose origin is apparently not from Hebrew. So let’s reaquaint ourselves with Adonijah, whom we have seen here before. His name means “my Lord is Yahweh,” from adon – lord, husband, master, owner and Yah.

So much to say about this meaning. While I believe the Word is clear husbands and wives belong to each other, it does make me squirm when husband, master, and owner are listed in the same definition. And then I get to breathe again when I remind myself the name put together means Yahweh is my master. Our ultimate husband, the One Who will always, only satisfy our every emotional need and be worthy of worship.

This allows me to trust a human husband because I trust the God Man first. It helps us also stand up to anything in a marriage which goes against our primary allegiance to Him, the only way to truly love. Indeed, may our master be Yah.

Next up we have another name whose root word is unclear. Bigvai is listed next, which perhaps means “happy.” I’m not sure why scholars think this, but there are worse name meanings, yes?

What does that word happy do to you today? Are you walking in happiness or somewhere near it? Or does it grate due to your lack? Fortunately, God does not force us to put on happy faces if we’re suffering. When we suffer. He knows what it’s like to be left alone, confused, and betrayed. To be tempted to rely on self instead of His Father, and watch those He loves suffer. He even knows what it’s like to be the object of whispers and grow up with rumors about His family.

And yet I believe Jesus often walked on this broken planet in happiness. I think He found joy in work and delight in His family. I think He loved parties and people, animals and adventure. While the desert climate likely did not lend itself to snow angels, do you think He enjoyed weather changes and walks? I believe He loved flowers and belly laughs, children and warm, fresh bread. I think He embraced the prescribed feasts and sacred holidays with gusto.

In the advent, between the Advents, may we delight in happiness when it presents itself. Let us not feel guilty in our joy, even while the pain persists. It’s part of how we go from strength to strength.

And when it’s all just too much, we get the privilege of pouring our hearts out to Him. Our lament is welcomed, commanded, and a precious treasure to our God. Then we can get up and walk again, this day, with Him in what He’s called us to, borrowing His happiness.

Our final leader listed today is Adin, from the same meaning as eden – a luxury, dainty, delight, pleasure. Eden’s root is adan – to luxuriate, revel in.

It fascinates me this is the name of the place in which God settled the first humans. That He would give His creation a luxurious, pleasurable world in which to revel. With purposeful work, intimate relationships with Him and each other, savory cuisine, fruit sweeter than candy, and astonishing beauty.

I’m grateful He not only made such luxury, but He entered into it. He knows what it feels like to bite into succulent lamb, a fig so luscious He may have closed His eyes. To throw His head back in laughter and delight in loved ones. To weep unselfconsciously when those loved ones suffered in this weary world. To cling to joy in the midst of sorrow.

Yes, this God-Man has fully felt. Fully feels. As human leaders we are privileged to follow suit.

No other god. Jesus the One and Only.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…]

the leaders of the people:

Parosh, Pahath-Moab, Elam, Zattu, Bani…”

Nehemiah 10:14

Last time we looked at the final Levites who signed the covenant, remembering we belong to each other as we build and rebuild at His lead.

Today we move to the next section of names who signed the covenant: the leaders. Leaders in Hebrew is rosh – head. Beginning, best things, bodyguard, captain, sum, end, laughingstock, finest, first, and topmost are other meanings of this word.

Once again we see such opposites. Beginning and best things in the same definition as end and laughingstock. And yet, leadership does imply all of it. If we are given an area of leadership and think we are the beginning and end of it all – the project, results, opinions, or expectations of anyone following – the movement is likely already sunk. It cannot be about us if it is to be about His kingdom.

At the same time, when God is asking us to lead, it does imply a beginning. Someone willing to step out first in faith and see if the direction is indeed in step with His Spirit. And leadership implies an end, the last. After all, we are walking with a Savior Who said the first shall be last, the last first.

Any time we seek to take people where God wants them to go (read: leadership), we must be willing to be last. To wash feet and serve more than call out orders or inspire vision. Followers must trust our hearts before they can trust the direction we’re asking them to go.

And, of course, the most sobering aspect of leadership is we are the head of the project, the people, the end results. When things go awry, we are the ones to whom the responsibility falls. The captains, bodyguards of the direction the group moves. Sometimes, like our Savior, this could result in being a laughingstock. At least in the worldly sense.

Even if we as leaders follow the Leader as best we know how, walking with others in the Kingdom will always look foolish to this world. Laying down our rights, not insisting on our own way, looking at the setbacks as God-given opportunities for Him to show up is quite the opposite of bottom line profit gaining.

And yet it is the only way to one day stand before Him with integrity. Putting people over profit or product matters. Friends, if God has given us areas in which others look to us to lead, let’s bow daily at the fearsome thing to which we will one day be held accountable, then stand in His Spirit, willing to step out in faith first.

Our first leader listed is Parosh. We have seen this name mentioned only briefly in Nehemiah 3:25 as the father of Pedaiah. The strange thing is it means “a flea or isolated insect.” It comes from the root word para – to avenge, expose, dismiss, avoid, perish, let go. To make the full name, para is combined with ash (a moth) or ashesh (to waste away).

So: a flea, isolated insect, dismissed moth, to waste away. Any way you look at it, it’s not good, huh? The name implies someone to avoid. How heartbreaking. How difficult to go through life with a name with such a meaning.

So let’s chat. Who in our society is exposed, dismissed, let go of? I automatically think of lepers in Jesus’ day, but how about ours? Asking myself at the same time, who might you avoid if you saw them coming? What people group is perishing due to systemic sin? Who in our world needs avenging due to injustice?

These are questions which, frankly, are inconvenient. They disrupt our comfortable lives and force excuses, when really all it takes is time and love. God is not even asking us to fix everything. Just be a voice, vote, make others aware, support one area, refrain from financing another known for inhumane practices. Or on a relational level, spend time, listen, share with boundaries. And pray. Never stop praying, friends. May no person or group feel like an isolated insect during our tenure.

Pahath-Moab (Neh. 3:11 and 7:11) – a post exilic name meaning pit of Moab. Some real rough name meanings this time around, huh? When I hear pit, I don’t usually think of something good. And, of course, the Moabites were enemies of Israel pre-exile. Makes me wonder why his mother named him this?

An interesting tidbit is how it also means “from the mother’s father” – from the prefix m and ab. Which I suppose could explain why his mother chose the name. Not all biblical names were chosen with favorable meanings (see Genesis 29 with Leah and Naomi in the book of Ruth).

Speaking of Ruth, in her we get to see a well-known example of someone from Moab. Ruth was a Moabitess and is listed in the lineage of King Jesus. A beautiful example of God’s redemption, His open arms to those who seek to worship Him, and a lovely reminder this day before our first Sunday in Advent.

Indeed, our Lord came through humble means with both a perfectly-divine lineage and an imperfectly-human one as well. No other way to be God with us, Immanuel. May we never get over the incarnation.

The final two names, Zattu and Bani, do not lead us to interesting places this time around. Zattu is of uncertain derivation, and we saw the name Bani last time, which comes from banah – to build, rebuild.

So instead, let’s end with Elam, whose name means “son of Shem.” While it isn’t known for certain, it likely comes from the root word alam – to conceal, disregard, neglect, pay no attention, pretenders, secret, veil from sight.

May these descriptions never be true of us. May we never deny the truth, pretending or concealing when we are perfectly loved. Let us never disregard others, paying no attention to image bearers. And when we do, when these descriptions are true in our lives, may we not neglect to confess and make it right. The veil is torn, no more need to unsuccessfully veil from His sight our shortcomings. He knows. No need to be pretenders, friends.

There has never been a more genuine Leader than Him to show us the way.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the following Levites…]

Hodiah, Bani and Beninu…”

Nehemiah 10:13

Last time we saw four Levites whose names point out how Yah regards us, even as He sends burning heat. Today we see the final three Levite names listed who signed the covenant to obey Yahweh.

Hodiah is first, obviously the name of two Levites, as we just saw it three verses ago in 10:10. If you remember, it means “My Splendor is Yah,” a meaning of which we could all use reminding.

Up next is Bani whose name we have seen several times throughout this book, including Nehemiah 3:17, 8:7, and 9:4-5. The name is from banah – to build, fortify, rebuild, restore, obtain children, repair.

The general sense of this definition is proactive, intentional action: to build something new, to rebuild what has broken, to restore what has been marred, to fortify what is good that needs protected, to build a family – spiritual or relational or physical – through a lineage.

Have you ever thought about how building, creating, restoring as humans is so reflective of the heart of our God Who is on the move? If you picture a distant, slightly uninvolved deity when thinking of Yahweh, I encourage you to grab your Bible. Our God has always been active throughout His recorded movement among humanity, and is even now: building His church, rebuilding broken people and relationships, restoring lost Shalom.

It takes such pressure off, doesn’t it? And yet, can light a healthy fire under us to become part of such restoration – without all the ego involved. It’s what our Maker is already doing. What He chose us in Christ Jesus to do – good works prepared in advance for us.

Our final Levite to sign the covenant is Beninu. While the meaning is uncertain, it is most likely “our son” from ben meaning “son, afflicted, anointed, child, descendants, offspring, unfortunate, valiant, warriors, young, youths, wicked.”

Such varied definitions here, yes? Afflicted and unfortunate and wicked among descendants, anointed, young, valiant, and warrior. While it is not likely one names their child to be known as wicked or afflicted, I find the juxtaposition interesting.

In what ways can we be young and valiant, yet unfortunate? How are we like warriors but also wicked? And are we not both anointed by God and afflicted while on this earth?

I think it can be us all, depending on the day. The moment. Our hearts can be so divided that wickedness can just as likely come out of our mouths as something pure. And we can be among God’s chosen descendants, heir to all the riches of heaven, yet live as if we are unfortunate. We can be valiant warriors in His Spirit, yet live like youths with no training.

The good news is that little word our in the “our son” definition. If the name were simply Ben, it could easily just mean son. But it seems Beninu implies a collectiveness to the word.

Belonging matters, doesn’t it? Son, a son, versus our son. We belong to one another, friends. Particularly if we are among the family of God. We are His and we are each others’.

And the precious Son, the only Son of God, is ours as well. Not as in we own Him, but we belong to Him because of what He never owed but freely gave for us.

And the true Valiant Warrior crushed wickedness itself to set us free.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the following Levites…]

Hashabiah, Zakkur, Sherebiah, Shebaniah…”

Nehemiah 10:11b-12

Last time we looked at covenant-signing Levites whose names reminded us Yah provides the marvelous and broadens our hearts as we walk with Him. Today we will step into the next four Levite names.

We begin with Hashabiah whose name we also see in Nehemiah 3:17. The meaning is “Yah has taken account” or “Yah has regarded,” from Yah and chashab – to think, account, calculate, design, devise, determine, esteem, plan, purpose, scheme.

These words give me pause at first blush. The idea of calculating, devising, or scheming conjure up images of human striving, working each angle to make something fit to a predetermined end. And if we look at the news or our own hearts, we can surmise this end is a selfish one. The good news is that is never God’s heart.

If He is devising plans, they are for our ultimate good. If He is calculating or scheming, it is not as humans would do, trying to figure out the best end. He knows the best end, the perfect direction for everyone involved. No needing to recalculate, redesign, or reassess His purpose. He has one purpose – His glory and our good – and as Creator God, God Incarnate, and God the Spirit, He moves resolutely in that direction.

And this Perfect One has regarded us. He has taken us into account though we often ignore Him. He esteems our worth as His image bearers, though at times we trash that worth in ourselves and others. In short, whenever we devise, calculate, or determine that He has somehow gotten it wrong in our lives (read: sin) we can pretty much assume we are the ones who have missed the mark.

And, as such, we get to join God in His redemption of our messes. When we start to wonder if Yah has taken account of certain systemic injustices or blatant iniquities, we get to remind ourselves He has. He sees and knows and is on the move to redeem. Our invitation is to calculate, determine, how to jump into the already rushing tide.

Our next Levite is Zakkur whose name is from zakar – mindful, confess, remember, boast, call to mind.

I remember the first time I heard confession explained using the Greek definition: homologeó – to speak the same, to agree. It made so much sense and gave my heart some freedom in the idea. If to confess our sins to God means to agree with Him that they are not what is best – for us, for others, for Shalom – the heart can follow. To be of the same mind that living for ourselves is junk and never worth it can remind us no matter how tightly we’re clinging to what wants to kill us, some part of us knows it’s not what we truly want.

And to come to the same conclusion as the prompting from the Spirit inside us brings immense relief. We can let go of the heavy burden and allow Him to bring the sorry we may not feel yet, open our eyes to how we’ve hurt others in our selfishness. In short, confession is saying, “My flesh still wants this, but my heart knows it’s wrong. Forgive me and give me godly sorrow over it. Help me let it go.”

Freeing, yes? It helps us be mindful of what we genuinely want to be true of our lives, remember how living for Him feels, and boast in His magnificent grace toward us. In short, good name, Zakkur.

Our final two Levites are also listed in Nehemiah 9:4-5 of those standing on the stairs in view of the people commanding praise to God. The first is Sherebiah whose name means “Yah has sent burning heat.” It’s from Yah and sharab – burning heat, parched ground, to glare; quivering glow (of the air), mirage.

Can’t you picture it? The mirage in a desert, heated air distorting the vision ahead?

According to Science Daily, the mirage effect is “an optical phenomenon in which light rays are bent to produce a displaced image of distant objects or the sky. The most common example of a mirage is when an observer appears to see pools of water on the ground. This occurs because the air near the ground is a lot warmer than the air higher up, causing lights rays to bend upward towards the viewer’s eye rather than bounce off the surface.

This results in an image of the sky appearing on the ground which the viewer perceives as water actually reflecting the sky; the brain sees this as a more likely occurrence.”

Interesting that this heat – this burning heat, parched ground – would be what Yah has sent. Is He trying to distort reality for us, making His work in our lives like a deceptive mirage? Of course not, that’s not His character. And He wouldn’t be worthy of worship, let alone our entire lives, if it was.

So what does it mean that He has sent a quivering glow? Heat that burns and ground which is in need of moisture? I don’t know all of what it could mean, but in my experience with our Consuming Fire it has had to do with getting rid of impurities which needed gone before He and I could take the next step together. Fire cleanses not just destroys.

When in the capable hands of Yah, fire in the lives of His people is not for our destruction. It may, however, be teaching us not to rely on our own powers of perception. I don’t know about you, but I have been completely wrong in the past with what I thought I was seeing. He can use such times of burning heat to help us live out leaning not on our own understanding. Not because He’s cruel but because He’s kind.

Our final Levite today, who was alongside Sherebiah on the stairs leading praise, is Shebaniah, whose name means “Yah has grown, prospered.” I so quickly go to finances in my mind for this prosper verse, when growing wealth cannot possibly be true for every follower of Jesus around the world.

But if Yah indeed grows any influence or depth of spirituality in our lives, may it be coupled with a hefty dose of humility and fear of the LORD. One need only to see those in the public eye fall to know it could happen to any one of us. Every one of us. As we choose to walk in the Spirit of power, love, and self-control, rather than anxious fear of public failure, we can both protect our hearts from temptation and walk in a manner worthy of our calling.

For it is true, Yah has regarded us.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the following Levites…]

…Pelaiah, Hanan, Mica, Rehob…”

Nehemiah 10:10b & 11a

Last time we dove into three new Levite names and their meanings, reminding ourselves of the Ancient One and how our lives are an imperfect, but desired offering to the LORD. Today we continue on with three more Levites signing a covenant to obey Yahweh.

Our first is Pelaiah whose name we have seen in Nehemiah 8:7. The meaning is, “Yah has distinguished” from Yah and pala – to be surpassing or extraordinary; marvelous, miracles, show your power, things difficult, things wonderful, accomplish, arise.

It is so human to want those adjectives to be describing us. To be thought of as surpassing or extraordinary in a world which tears us down sounds delightful. And yet.

The most lonely of us wouldn’t be filled up if every person out there thought us extraordinary. And if we could surpass all human records and others’ expectations, it would only leave us wanting more.

Indeed, the only way to safely walk in our desires to be accomplished, distinguished, or wonderful is to let it be Yahweh Who works in and through us. The funny thing is, that’s most often when we are weak or lonely or hurting on our own. It really is He Who provides the marvelous.

Our next Levite, also seen in Nehemiah 8:7, is Hanan which means “gracious.” It’s from chanan – favor, to show favor, fair, bend or stoop in kindness, merciful, have pity upon, beseech, make supplication.

Our next Levite listed is Mica, whose name is a variation of Mikayah “Who is like Yah?”

For who is God besides the Lord?
    And who is the Rock except our God? – Psalm 18:31

Well, no one. Not one single other thing or human, experience or amount of cash compares. Idols fail to deliver. None other answers by fire.

If you don’t know this deep down – like experientially realized the emptiness of everything else – choose today to believe and live like it’s true. Ask Him to show you how there is none like Him. Pray for an emptiness in other things. Then beg for a filling of Him so full, streams of Living Water cannot help but gush. May our lives be a walking answer to the question, “Who is like Yah?”

No one.

Our final Levite today is Rehob whose name comes from rachab – to be or grow wide or large, enlarge, extend, make room, rejoice, speak boldly, broaden literally or figuratively.

It all sounds so grand. To have our lives enlarged, to make room for others and have our influence broaden. To speak boldly when needed, without shrinking back in fear. And it is grand – if He orchestrates it.

May we first allow our walks with Him be enlarged and extend past ourselves. May we make room in our hearts for His agenda and rejoice in justice for those unlike us. To speak boldly with lives which back up our words because we’ve found His Word and ways to be True.

And as we are changed from the inside out, it is our gracious Yah Who broadens our hearts.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the following Levites…]:

Kadmiel, and their fellow Levites:

Shebaniah, Hodiah, Kelita…”

Nehemiah 10:9b-10a NLT

Last time we began with the Levites who signed our document, remembering God gives ear to His people, full of dignity and well-favored. Today we step into the next three Levite names.

First is Kadmiel (Ezra 3:9, Nehemiah 9:4) – “God is the ancient one” from qedem – aforetime, east, front, formerly, everlasting, ancient, past.

Don’t you love knowing there is Someone Who has always been? Even if it takes a minute to ponder – then nearly implodes your mind as you do – it is one of the most reassuring Truths of which we can remind ourselves.

One of my favorite characteristics in another person is loyalty. When someone has been by your side, saving your hide, for over a year, what a gift. Over five years, what a joy. For more than a decade? My friends, you have a celebration on your hands.

How much more faithful marriages of fifty years? Friendships which span decades and generations of family stories and branches of its tree? Even these gifts pale in comparison to the everlasting nature of Yahweh. Elohim – Creator God. El Elyon, God Most High. El Olam, the Everlasting One.

This idea of Him being before time is spectacular enough, but what about His absolute perfection throughout? Not a spot of selfishness, not one drop of mean-spiritedness. Never has He been sinfully impatient nor abusive and cruel. This spotless, pristine character was true before the creation of the world and will still be enduring when we’ve been there 10,000 years. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Not changing with His moods or shifting opinions based on new data. He has all the data. He does not need new information. He knows all, sees all, and is all-powerful through infinity.

Our next Levite’s name, the first of Kadmiel’s “fellow Levites,” is Shebaniah which means, “Yah has grown.” We have seen this name in Nehemiah 9:4-5 as the Israelites are confessing their sins and the Levites step in and command praise:

“Stand up and praise the Lord your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting.” (Nehemiah 9:5b)

And once again we have our Everlasting God. Perhaps that is the secret to Yah growing us: relying less and less on our own strength, courage, and understanding, and leaning into His. Remembering He is from before time and there will be no god after Him. That it is He Who forms the light and creates darkness. From the beginning.

Our next Levite is Hodiah which means, “My Splendor is Yah.” It comes from Yah and hod – splendor, majesty, vigor, authority, beauty, glory, honor, natural color.

We have seen this name before in Nehemiah 8 when Ezra read the Law aloud from His platform. Hodiah was one of the Levites who helped interpret the Hebrew and explain the meaning to the people. Now here he is signing our covenant to obey the God of Israel.

Do you genuinely believe your splendor is Yah? What about the Church in our day, His Bride in our generation? Does the splendor come from Him more than programs and performances? Is His the source of all authority in our lives and His beauty what captivates us?

I think we will know if this is true for us when we see the fruit of it in our collective lives: feet washed and a considering of others better than ourselves. Daily crosses borne and falling to the ground to die like a seed in order to live. Lives drenched in the Word and growth, too concerned with the brokenness we see and a world dying without hope, to waste time attacking others. Too much is at stake and the task too full of purpose to squander it.

Let’s turn our focus to the Source of all beauty and majesty, vigor and authority. Just like my hair roots, when we wait long enough our true colors come through. Our sin is exposed, and we all struggle. But may He find us faithful to confessing our sins, sincerely repenting, and walking by His Spirit.

We have seen the final name listed on here before: Kelita,”whose name comes from qalat – to be stunted, to maim, lacking in his parts. Its only use is in Leviticus 22:22-25 when talking about a less-than-perfect sacrifice for a freewill offering:

‘Don’t try giving God an animal that is blind, crippled, mutilated, an animal with running sores, a rash, or mange. Don’t place any of these on the Altar as a gift to God. You may, though, offer an ox or sheep that is deformed or stunted as a Freewill-Offering, but it is not acceptable in fulfilling a vow. Don’t offer to God an animal with bruised, crushed, torn, or cut-off testicles. Don’t do this in your own land but don’t accept them from foreigners and present them as food for your God either. Because of deformities and defects they will not be acceptable.’ (MSG)” (source)

Verses like these not only make me grateful for the Ultimate Sacrifice of Jesus, but cause me to selah about the Holiness of our One True God. Giving Him less than what He has asked is an affront to Him. The only way to fulfill the vow of making Him our Savior and authority in all of life is to accept He had to do it for us. Come and take our place, walk in our mess, and take it all on Himself.

And so, with Paul, “in view of God’s mercy,” we offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to Him. We lay on that altar, and lay back down when our stubborn sin keeps encouraging us to get up. No, it’s not a perfect offering to a perfect God, it is stunted and lacking and never enough. But because of Him it is. It is. Our lives laid down for His glory every day is our offering.

And the Ancient One is honored.