An Interlude in Nehemiah – Thinking About Two Walls

(This piece could have taken place in a “rest area” somewhere between Persia and Judah on the long journey toward Jerusalem).

Prior to our mystical arrival with Nehemiah in Jerusalem, we pause to consider the upcoming events and some applicable meaning for us here and now.

To be sure, the condition of the ruined wall and gates surrounding the city weighed heavily on Nehemiah’s heart and occupied much of his thinking in recent days. The desire to rebuild that wall and repair the gates was foremost in his mind and prompted him to appeal to the king of Persia for help. The planning, preparation, and actual construction work make up the text through the first seven chapters of the book. Generally speaking, this is how Nehemiah and his writing are most remembered.

However, may we also give some thought to a parallel significance for those of us who do not live within a walled city and do not depend upon such a structure for our safety and peace.

As we observe the works of Nehemiah and the Jerusalem wall project, may I suggest that we reflect on the importance of strong, stable walls in our personal lives.

The wall of a city, in ancient times, provided the inhabitants identity, protection and community. During times of peace or hostility, the wall served as a boundary, a visible expression of their identity – “This is our city; here is our home; this is who we are” – be it Jerusalem, Jericho, Damascus, etc. While the wall stood strong, the people were defended from enemy attacks. Furthermore, within the wall there existed a sense of community. There, the people relied on each other, worked together, and shared common values for the good of all. Their economy, social and physical well-being, and public safety depended on their ability to survive and prosper within that community. At the same time, their gates allowed opportunity to welcome others in and to reach out to neighbors in communication, trade, etc.

So, it is (perhaps not in an exact image and not pushing the analogy too far) with our lives as persons. We human beings have been created by God with physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual components. The degree to which these function – individually and collectively – will determine the measure of our health, happiness, and holiness. Our “gates” (five senses) also serve to connect us with those around us.

Therefore, we might think of ourselves as a “personal city” with a “personal wall”. We all need identity, protection, and community within ourselves to experience the wholeness (salvation) for which we have been created. Hence, we need a good, strong wall.

As stated earlier, we hope that this study through Nehemiah will not only give us an appreciation of the love and grace of God for His people, but also some guidance and understanding toward building/ repairing our own personal walls.

“Let us rise up and build” (Nehemiah 2:18).

Fr. Andrew