In the darkness, the Light dawns
Nehemiah 12-13/John 1-2
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OT
12:27 During the dedication of the new wall of Jerusalem, the Levites throughout the land were asked to come to Jerusalem to assist in the ceremonies. They were to take part in the joyous occasion with their songs of thanksgiving and with the music of cymbals, lyres, and harps.
:46-47 The custom of having choir directors to lead the choirs in hymns of praise and thanks to God began long ago in the days of David and Asaph. So now, in the days of Zerubbabel and of Nehemiah, the people brought a daily supply of food for the singers, the gatekeepers, and the Levites. The Levites, in turn, gave a portion of what they received to the priests, the descendants of Aaron.
:13:29 Remember them, O my God, for they have defiled the priesthood and the promises and vows of the priests and Levites.
NT
1:1-5 In the beginning the Word already existed. He was with God, and he was God. He was in the beginning with God. He created everything there is. Nothing exists that he didnt make. Life itself was in him, and this life gives light to everyone. The light shines through the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
OT Flash Points
The restored wall is dedicated
The people are dedicated to the Law
But only a short period of time until the commitment eroded and Jerusalem lapsed into lawlessness
The purification process is endless and painful
NT Flash Points
The Light, The Creator, The Word
Walking among His people, giving life
This Light and Word will always overpower darkness
Perspective
Believing – this miracle of redemption is for all, from rabbi to slave
One Master for all – Jesus
My natural self is recreated and transformed, actuated by obedience to Him