My heart is captured by Nehemiah's raw grief for the consequences of sin, (corporate and personal.)
His prayer is heavy-laden with sounds known to those who have suffered the destruction of sin; to those who understand the universal law of sewing and reaping.
Nehemiah reminds God of His covenant promises to the Israelite's, while confessing their sin, his sin and the sin of his family. Understanding the requirements of God's law and His sovereign nature, Nehemiah knows repentance comes before restoration.
As he petitions his master the king for a leave of absence to begin rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, grief for his people is etched on his face.
With the kings consent, Nehemiah prepares a project plan for restoration of the walls of Jerusalem torn down and burned by enemies of Judah.
Reading further into Nehemiah's story, we learn that he is much more than a good project manager with a master plan. He is a man seeking restoration, standing in the gap with fervent prayer for a rebellious people on the verge of losing their homeland and heritage.
The prayer of Nehemiah is timeless and powerful when the longing of our sin-sick souls for restoration with God is greater than ourselves.
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