S) "8 Next to him Uzziel the son of Harhaiah of the goldsmiths made repairs. And next to him Hananiah, one of the perfumers, made repairs, and they restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall."
Nehemiah 3:8 (NASB)
O) The rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem had begun, and virtually everyone was involved (see v.5). There is a fairly extensive list of who helped, many of them by name, and there are details about which sections of the wall were built up by which people (which is the entire chapter). Reading through that listings, the above verse caught my eye, because the occupations of Uzziel and Hananiah are listed, and they struck me as almost opposites. While they were both makers of finer things, it seems (at least to me) that a goldsmith would be more accustomed to working with his hands. Maybe I just need to research perfumers more, but the main point is that this verse shows a crucial characteristic of the LORD: He calls everyone to accomplish His will. Goldsmiths and perfumers (v.8), priests (v.1), politicians (v.9), temple servants (v.26), and gatekeepers (v.29) are all listed. You know what occupations I didn't see? Stone masons, blacksmiths, or woodworkers. I'm not saying they weren't there, but I'm saying they would be expected. But, God uses everyone. It's also likely that the people listed among the workers could have been financiers, but maybe that just furthers the point: we can all contribute, even if our "skill set" doesn't exactly align with the task at hand.
A) When I think of "ministry" I do, admittedly, usually think of helping in terms of my passions or talents. While I think that is a wonderful use of the gifts God has given me, and can fulfill long-term purpose and God's plan, I cannot neglect need. When my church family makes a need known to me, I need to let go of preconceived ideas of what I can or cannot contribute, and instead simply ask God if I am being called to it.
P) Father, I want to do Your will. You have blessed me beyond measure, and it fills me with gratitude. Forgive me for my shortsighted view, and make me sensitive to the leadings of the Holy Spirit, when a ministry opportunity is made known to me. Help me to humble my heart, and give freely of my time, talents, money, and ultimately, of myself. Remind me that I am loving You, by loving others in Your name. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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