S) "1 Now the leaders of the people lived in Jerusalem, but the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of ten to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while nine-tenths remained in the other cities. 2 And the people blessed all the men who volunteered to live in Jerusalem."
Nehemiah 11:1-2 (NASB)
O) This passage confused me a little. It seemed odd that v.2 seemed to be a consolation, almost. Then, the word "volunteered" seemed strange (especially in light of the casting of lots). Continuing through the chapter, though, reveals the fate of the other 9/10 of the people. They returned to the portions of land that previously belonged to them! Normally, living in Jerusalem carried a lot of pride with it, but I think this was a generation disillusioned to the false securities that Zion's walls had become. In rebuilding, the people must've been very aware that living in Jerusalem would not make them special, by association. They saw that Jerusalem was penetrable, and no walls would stand against the will of the LORD. Consequently, the lot casting was necessary to get people to stay, potentially at the forfeit of their own portion allotted outside the holy city.
A) Initially, I thought this was a good example of celebrating the grace God has given to others. This tenth of the people were being blessed in their selection by God, via lot, and the people blessed them in addition (possibly calling them volunteers because of their obedience). While those are good principles, there is another picture being painted here. There were lots cast to bring in one of every tenth person, but there were also actual volunteers. They didn't wait for the lot to be cast, but volunteered to sacrifice for the good of their people. They saw the bigger picture, the need for some to stay within Jerusalem, and they answered a call to strengthen God's kingdom (despite their lack of national sovereignty). The blessing they received was one of thanks, that they volunteered to stay so that others could go freely.
P) Father, acts of sacrifice, big or small… this is what I want to do in thanksgiving because of what Jesus sacrificed for me. I want to volunteer, to fill a need without being told. I want to answer an unspoken call, because I know what te service means to the bigger picture of your kingdom, Father. Open my eyes to see that bigger picture. Remove every distraction from my heart, by holy extraction, even if it is painful, Lord. Help me stay focused on Your plan in my life, God. Let Your will be done; I volunteer. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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