31 I led the leaders of Judah to the top of the wall and organized two large choirs to give thanks. One of the choirs proceeded southward along the top of the wall to the Dung Gate. 32 Hoshaiah and half the leaders of Judah followed them, … 35 Then came some priests who played trumpets, including Zechariah son of Jonathan, … They used the musical instruments prescribed by David, the man of God. Ezra the scribe led this procession. 37 At the Fountain Gate they went straight up the steps on the ascent of the city wall toward the City of David. They passed the house of David and then proceeded to the Water Gate on the east.
38 The second choir giving thanks went northward around the other way to meet them. I followed them, together with the other half of the people, along the top of the wall past the Tower of the Ovens to the Broad Wall, 39 then past the Ephraim Gate to the Old City Gate, past the Fish Gate and the Tower of Hananel, and on to the Tower of the Hundred. Then we continued on to the Sheep Gate and stopped at the Guard Gate.
40 The two choirs that were giving thanks then proceeded to the Temple of God, where they took their places. So did I, together with the group of leaders who were with me. 41 We went together with the trumpet-playing priests… 42 and the singers… They played and sang loudly under the direction of Jezrahiah the choir director.
43 Many sacrifices were offered on that joyous day, for God had given the people cause for great joy. The women and children also participated in the celebration, and the joy of the people of Jerusalem could be heard far away.
Nehemiah 12:31-43 (ESV)
Capstone project
The pinnacle event of Ezara and Nehemiah – the dedication of the wall. Jerusalem was finally, for the most part, restored – with a temple and wall of protection. These were all accomplished, through trials and opposition, by dedication and faithfulness of the people, led by gifted leaders, supported by God’s strong hand. There was reason to rejoice!
Great joy
Ezra and Nehemiah led two groups of leaders in two directions along the top of the wall with singers and musicians. They met together at the temple and everyone participated in rejoicing and worship. “They were then overwhelmed with joy and thanksgiving, considering all God had done.” (enduringword.com) The rejoicing was so abundant that all the surrounding areas could hear (and feel) it.
Have you ever experienced a time like that of being overwhelmed with joy? Ask God for it. But be advised, it will probably be preceded by great trials.
