“And the people blessed all the men who willingly offered to live in Jerusalem” (Nehemiah 11:2 ESV).
Nehemiah recorded how the people of Israel repopulated Jerusalem after the wall had been rebuilt. Some were chosen by lot to move into the city, while others willingly offered to live there. Jerusalem was still vulnerable, and living outside the city likely offered greater security, comfort, and opportunity for cultivating their land. Yet these men were willing to sacrifice their personal interests for the good of God’s people. Their willingness was not overlooked. The people recognized their sacrifice and blessed them for it.
Nehemiah described men who willingly left the security and comfort of their homes to live in Jerusalem for the good of God’s people. Their willingness points us to a far greater example. For Jesus willingly left the glory of heaven, took the form of a servant, lived among us, and humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross for our sins. As the apostle Paul wrote, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). We have been blessed by the One who willingly gave Himself for us. Now we can bless Him with our praise and willingly follow Him as His servants. His selfless love becomes our example and His mind and attitude becomes ours by His Spirit. As we look to Christ, may we gladly surrender our comfort, convenience, and personal interests for the good of others and become willing to serve.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for Jesus, who willingly left the glory of heaven and gave His life on the cross for our sins. We praise You for such sacrificial love and thank You for the grace we have received through Him. Give us the mind of Christ, that we might gladly follow His example and willingly serve You and others. May our words and our lives continually bless and honor the One who willingly gave Himself for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.