Thoughts: In contrast to the high priest and chief priests working on the sheep gate (3:1), the "nobles" of the small town of Tekoa didn't want to work under their supervisors. Perhaps they felt they were superior to this kind of work. The idea of not putting their shoulders into it is the image of oxen who withdraw from their yoke. This is to their shame, and they are the only ones who felt they were too good for the work. Some indicate that these "little lords" also did not support the work with their funds. It is a very sad thing when God calls people to a great work, and they feel that they are too good to take part. No question that they doubted God's call and the priority of the work over their feelings. The unity of the city, the unity of the people of God, and the unity of the building of the wall was disrupted by the pride of these no-named "nobles" or leaders of this small town. If everyone takes part and answer God's call to the great work, it is a testimony to those on the outside and brings joy to those on the inside.
Prayer: Help me to hear your call and respond. Keep my pride weak and my awareness of your will strong.
No comments:
Post a Comment