“Meanwhile, the people in Judah said, “The strength of the laborers is giving out, and there is so much rubble that we cannot rebuild the wall.”” – Nehemiah 4:10
The day was drawing long and the people were milling about watching the man. Not a single person willing to step forward and help him, yet many were ridiculing and laughing at him as he labored away. He was a stranger in town and had won the contract based on his statements that he could build the entire thing by Christmas Eve. He worked with the wood and tools, cutting and fastening the pieces together as he worked furiously by himself. As the sun began to set, he went to his car and turned on the headlights so he could keep working. The people had all left before dusk and were now returning, after dinner, to find him still working away. They walked passed and entered the church as the snow began to fall, belittling him for not having the project done in time for the church service. The words bit into his heart more so than the snow upon his skin.
The Christmas Eve service was filled with worship and praise, wonderful singing and rejoicing with the Lord. About mid-way through the service the back door to the sanctuary opened and in walked the man who had been laboring all week. Dirty, scraped up and cut fingers, rags for clothes and no jacket in the middle of winter. The gentlemen walked to the front of the church and laid down his tools near the pulpit. He was embraced by the Pastor of this small country church, who then took the microphone and looked out over the congregation. “Ladies and Gentlemen, this will be my last service with you. I have been diagnosed with lymphoma and will be retiring to find rest during my battle. I would like to introduce you to your new Pastor. I only ask that you give him as much love, support and care as you have given me over the last 35 years. Judging by the incredible hand carved manger in the front of our church, trust me when I tell you, you are in good hands.”
As people left the church that Christmas Eve they were in awe to see the finished masterpiece of their new Pastor. With several others that had gathered outside that evening, they looked upon the most glorious hand carved life size Nativity they had ever seen.
In our walk with Christ we are going to face unbelievable challenges for the Lord. People will scoff, laugh and ridicule you for your efforts. Remain grounded in the Lord and listen to His guidance to see you through. Nothing is impossible for the Lord, again I say nothing.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
We thank you for the wonder of your scriptures that can teach us to lift our hearts to you and to lift our plans and actions to you. Work within each of us today, and let us know those things that need your attention. That we can be your eyes and feet upon this earth and do your work despite what others might think. When time is critical and things seem impossible Lord, we come to you and ask for your strength to see us through. For we acknowledge Lord, that nothing is impossible for you. We lift these things up to you today Lord that you might fulfill your purpose in our life. In Your name we pray - Amen
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