17 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.” 18 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. (Nehemiah 2:17 -18, New International Version)
40 The two choirs that gave thanks then took their places in the house of God; so did I, together with half the officials, 41 as well as the priests—Eliakim, Maaseiah, Miniamin, Micaiah, Elioenai, Zechariah and Hananiah with their trumpets— 42 and also Maaseiah, Shemaiah, Eleazar, Uzzi, Jehohanan, Malkijah, Elam and Ezer. The choirs sang under the direction of Jezrahiah. 43 And on that day they offered great sacrifices, rejoicing because God had given them great joy. The women and children also rejoiced. The sound of rejoicing in Jerusalem could be heard far away. (Nehemiah 12:40 -43, New International Version)
Theme: Rejoicing and Thanksgiving
Context:
Thanks to all those who shared their insights over the last three days as we considered how the discipline of Worship supports a lifestyle of rejoicing and thanksgiving. Today we turn our attention to Fellowship. The impact of restrictions on fellowship over the last three years highlighted the fact that God made us to live in community. The ability to return to more normal modes of fellowship has certainly resulted in rejoicing and thanksgiving. It is helpful to consider some of the biblical reasons why fellowship is so essential.
One reason is that there is joy in performing God’s work in community. Accomplishing big objectives by ourselves is certainly satisfying but there is something really special about team accomplishments. The Church has the clear purpose of advancing God’s kingdom. Pursuing this purpose in community is a recipe for rejoicing and thanksgiving.
Bible Passages:
In the first passage above, the Children of Israel commenced the rebuilding of the wall of Jerusalem as a community. In the second passage, the fellowship evolves into a memorable time of rejoicing and thanksgiving.
Please study the passage and consider the question below.
Question:
Can you recall a time of rejoicing and thanksgiving that resulted from working with a group of believers to accomplish a project.
Please leave a comment. We would love to hear from you.
March 16, 2023 at 4:44 am
I worked along side a group of ladies who most were widows to put together a dinner party for other widows mostly shut in older women. We spent days making table arrangements, coming up with menus and games and personal take home gifts and lots more entertainment. The reason this stands out is working with these women was sheer joy, non stop laughter, singing, and thanksgiving.
March 16, 2023 at 7:20 am
I had the opportunity to be part of my university’s gospel choir, and each year we had a Gospel Concert that was open to the student body. It took a lot of time, coordination, and promotion, but in the end, it was always worth it to see the student body gathered and worshipping together. Even students who didn’t previously know God would come to the concert and be moved. It was a powerful ministering event.
March 16, 2023 at 9:45 am
Like Karen I work with five other widows to organize two celebratory events every year for other widows. It is always a joy to see these other widows who come from all parts of our Island to celebrate with us, but also to see how much joy, comfort, and enjoyment they get from one another. It is truly a blessing.from God. All praise to Him.
March 16, 2023 at 12:16 pm
Last year’s summer, at my newly found church here in Houston I helped at VBS (Vacation Bible Study) in June. Grateful God gave me a gift to always enjoy teaching the gospel to children from kindergarten to elementary age level. I find it also fun to sing songs, play games, and do many other activities with children at church. Actually, wherever we get posted, I make sure I find a church where there were activities/ ministries I could support. Like for instance, in Japan, I’m a regular helper at kids ministry, when in Oregon, had the women support group where we had retreats, book clubs, in Oman church, we had a program I joined where every Sunday, there will be one from a particular country to lead the worship service, it’s called Cultural Sunday worship. In My church in River Oaks, Houston I joined tge prayer ministry group and once a week members take turns to lead the grayer by sharing a short devotional. It’s a joy to be a part or be able to help in such kind of activities, reaching out to many believers and non believers, and sharing the Word of God. It’s a fulfilling experience for me. At the same time, it prompts me to acknowledge and be thankful to God for I had a chance to participate. I know without God’s help, I could not do it alone.
March 16, 2023 at 4:24 pm
Once I was a part of street ministry outreach. It was only.possible for me to have the confidence to stand on the sidewalks of St James, giving out pamphlets, as the then pastor and a few church members were also there. Also speaking with those who stopped to ask more about Jesus & the church.. I have also assisted at a Vacation Bible School for children. And, at Sunday achool for children. All that was before Covid.
March 16, 2023 at 11:08 pm
I can’t remember anything I did as a community.
I only help organize things at work
When I worked.
I started serving in kids ministry but with 3 grandchildren I find it difficult.
But I believe this is the way of life God meant for us to live.
It is more natural and rewarding.
Right now at our bible study called “Freedom” we are helping each other overcome.
Much more fun being and doing together.
March 17, 2023 at 5:59 am
There may have been, but I cannot recall a time of rejoicing and thanksgiving that resulted from working with a group of believers to accomplish a project.
However, whenever I volunteer my time for just about any reason, because I like to be of help to others, I typically experience feelings of happiness, satisfaction, and gratitude.