A Call to Restoration

Rebuilding Relationships: A Call to Restoration

Nehemiah 2:17-18 (NIV)

Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.

Beloved Ekklesia Family, we live in times where relationships, like the walls of Jerusalem, often lie in ruins. Broken homes, fractured friendships, and divided communities are our daily reality. Yet, the story of Nehemiah offers us a blueprint for restoration. Nehemiah saw the devastation, but he also saw the potential for rebuilding, powered by God's grace and the commitment of the people.

In our day to day lives, rebuilding relationships can seem like an insurmountable task. Trust has been eroded by betrayal, and hope by disappointment. Yet, Nehemiah’s story reminds us that God’s hand is upon us. He calls us to the hard, yet holy work of restoration.

In Nehemiah 2:17-18, we see a man who acknowledges the brokenness around him but doesn’t stop there. He rallies the people with a vision of what could be, underscored by the assurance of God’s favor. The walls of Jerusalem didn’t just represent physical protection; they symbolized a restored identity and renewed community.

1. Acknowledge the Brokenness: Like Nehemiah, we must first acknowledge the hurt and brokenness in our relationships. Ignoring the damage only leads to further decay. Let’s be honest about where we are, both individually and as a community.

2. Seek God’s Favor: Nehemiah’s confidence came from knowing God’s hand was upon him. We too must seek God’s guidance and favor through prayer and His Word. It is His grace that empowers us to rebuild.

3. Commit to the Work: Restoration requires effort. It’s not enough to wish for better relationships; we must be willing to put in the hard work. This means extending forgiveness, even when it’s not asked for, and seeking reconciliation, even when it’s uncomfortable.

4. Involve the Community: Nehemiah didn’t rebuild the walls alone. He rallied the people to join in the work. In our urban context, let’s lean on our community. Engage in open dialogues, support one another, and work together towards healing.

Ekklesia, let’s start rebuilding. Let’s not be content with ruins when God has called us to restoration. Together, with God’s gracious hand upon us, we can rebuild relationships and witness the renewal of our community. Amen.

LoveUmorethanUknow Pastor Stephän Kirby