Often we fail to determine priorities and what is most valuable in this life. The glitz of the modern world with all its demands and dynamics diverts our view. The life that should be dedicated entirely to God is no longer done. How can we return the focus of our lives to God?
The book of Nehemiah, especially chapter 13:11-21, is a reflection of this reality. Behind this narrative, we find the cry of a leader who is restless seeing the house of God neglected. Nehemiah's question, "Why is the house of God neglected?" (verse 11), is not merely rhetorical, but a call to reflect. What has become the center of our attention? Do we still make God the main priority in our lives? This question also symbolizes the concern about the spiritual life of the people at that time.
When Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem, he found the Levites and singers, those who should have maintained a life of worship, busy with their fields. Why? Because the portion that was their right was not given. The people lost faith in the institution that was supposed to manage the offerings well. They also forgot their part in God's work to provide for the Levites. As a result, the Levites had to return to farming to meet their daily needs. Nehemiah did not choose to remain silent. He took action. He called the leaders, rebuked them, and reorganized the offering system. This is a lesson about the importance of courageous and integral leadership. A true leader is not one who pleases the ears of many people, but one who dares to rebuke for the sake of truth.
Furthermore, Nehemiah faced the issue of the Sabbath which was considered trivial. The market remained open, transactions took place as if nothing was wrong. This was not just a matter of the rules of the day of worship, this was about a heart that loved profit more than God. Nehemiah called it out firmly: "What evil are you doing by desecrating the Sabbath day?" (verse 17). Their mistake was not just because of trading, but because they reversed their priorities. They forgot that behind God's command there was an intention to maintain a sacred relationship between the Creator and His creation. He reminded the nation of the history of the ancestors who ended tragically because they neglected God's provisions, one of which was the law on the Sabbath,
Today we also often experience distractions and forget our calling to be involved in God's work. Maybe we no longer talk about offerings of the harvest, but what about the use of our time? Is there room for God in our busy daily schedules? We forget the "Sabbath" which is a special time to relate and fellowship with Him, we are more busy with social media, work, or various entertainment that exists. Indeed, as God's people we can only try to be more serious in improving ourselves and living according to His provisions. This is what underlies Nehemiah's actions who then closed his action with a sincere prayer: "O my God, remember me for this, and do not erase all the lovingkindness I have shown to the house of my God and all its activities!" (verse 14). A prayer that asks for God's mercy based on all His wisdom and goodness.
