“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Hallohesh, Pilha, Shobek…”

Nehemiah 10:24

Last time we let three leaders’ names point us to God’s salvation, His graciousness, and His just reckoning. Today we see our next three names.

To begin we have Hallohesh whose name appeared in Nehemiah 3:12. It means “whisperer,” “enchanter,” from lachash – to whisper, charm, to mumble a spell as a magician.

It’s interesting I’m typing this after the 2020 Super Bowl, with the variety of responses to the Halftime Show. I can easily see women being put into the above category in a negative sense. Women deceitfully charming others or bewitching people for their personal gain.

I personally had multiple reactions – including gratitude that my 12-year-old son was mostly focused on a phone during it. But I also thought of women I know who make their living in the way that was being portrayed. I thought of the incredible choreography and – based on what I’m learning from others online – intentional use of multiple cultures. I’ve since thought how heartbroken I am when my 8-year-old students dance provocatively, suggesting their thrilling years of delightful innocence have somehow been compromised by this broken world. But I’ve also thought of how terrified we are of our own God-given bodies and sexuality and desires. And how we can cheapen those beautiful gifts without meaning to. Or meaning to.

I feel like the bottom line in this conversation is how influential women are. We hold tremendous power because that is how God designed us. This is true whether we look like J.Lo and Shakira or not. We are all born of a woman. Women hold excruciating influence over those in their lives. And when things go awry and we adjust the focus of our gaze? Things can shift dramatically. We are that influential.

But I think we are terrified of it. We as women and the world at large. It feels like all wild and powerful things: something best controlled. And I don’t just mean dressing modestly. I mean the leader of all forces of darkness hates us. He whispers to us all, “If you don’t want to be influenced – like a snake being charmed – you must monitor the magnetism.”

Step one is usually shame. Shame for how women are created and all the reasons it must be monitored. The problem is, even if we women are walking in step with our faithful God, He still makes us charmers, enchanters, whisperers like magicians. Our influence is still boundless – now only more so because it is ignited by the Spirit’s fire, luxuriant beauty no law can harness.

And this enchanting lasts to old age. Which is why, indeed, “charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting,” a woman taught her son, a king, “but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Such charming has nothing to do with age or skin tightness. It has everything to do with a God of fire within. May we be enchanters for His kingdom all the days of our lives.

Up next is Pilcha whose post-exilic name only occurs here. It is from palach – slicing, to cleave, bring forth, pierce through, plow, cut, shred, break open and pelach – cleavage, millstone, a slice.

As seems to be common, a theme of both positive and negative connotations emerge for me based on these definitions. Slicing, cleaving, shredding, millstone all seem to be negative, tearing apart.

In searching millstone I came across some fascinating images. Ones that put in perspective what Jesus meant when He said, “It would be better to have a millstone tied around their neck and thrown into the sea” than cause one of these little ones to stumble.

Look at that thing! The size and density, requiring an animal to do the work of rolling it. I do believe Jesus protects the young and pure.

But back to today’s usage of the word: to break apart or slice. If indeed negative associations are meant, in what ways do we tear ourselves and others apart? How do we slice up dignity, pierce through personhood, and shred the reputation of others?

The thing is, there are often situations which require surgery or a painful sifting in our lives and others’. But in His hands, we can trust a sifter, a millstone, a fiery furnace, a cleaver. Whatever He desires to separate from us, our collective, broken systems, will only yield growth.

Which is where what I consider the more positive aspects of this definition come into play. To plow, pierce through, bring forth, break open all imply new life, fresh growth. It’s the idea of a seed being crucified in the soil only to save its life and spring forth shoots and branches and flowers. It’s the plowing of ground which, unless broken up, softened, cannot receive the seed in the first place. And unless a woman surrenders to the piercing labor pains, no new breath is brought forth.

The same is true for us collectively, spiritually, civically. Some things have to go for fresh wind to revitalize systems. Ground hardened with generational sin must be broken up, repented of. Seeds of vision, genuine faith must be planted, nurtured, allowed to pierce through the darkness of earth.

Are we allowing it? It is, admittedly, so much easier to sit on the couch and complain. Or blame another group but do no work. To become cynical and quit. But I think it’s more likely we want to look back and realize we were part of sowing and reaping in a harvest of the Spirit. Hands to the plow, friends.

Finally in today’s verse we have Shobek whose name also only occurs here. It is from the root word shebaq – to leave, forsaking, let alone, to quit.

Quite a lovely continuation of our above discussion, yes? We know there are things we need to let alone, habits and laws, systems and routines which require forsaking. Things which if we do not give up for the sake of the Kingdom, our entire lives will be enveloped by them.

The reason we can have courage and breathe through such disorienting departure is we have a God Who holds us tightly. He refuses to quit on us, no matter how many times we shoot up or drink, devour another or give in to apathy. He will not forsake us, give us to another, even when, especially when, we deserve it. He’s never leaving, never throwing up His hands, not recalculating the Cross. It is finished.

And we can be done with what He’s asking us to surrender individually and corporately. Our future hangs in the balance.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Hoshea, Hananiah, Hasshub…”

Nehemiah 10:23

Last time we reminded ourselves Yah has answered with His very Self. Today we get to meet our next three leaders.

We begin with Hoshea which means “salvation” from yasha – to deliver, avenge, preserve, safe, defend, wide open and free.

This is the same name as Hosea from the book of Hosea. Interesting, yes? While spelled differently, it is the same root name with the same meaning: salvation.

As you may know, God’s word to His people in Hosea’s time was a tender but jealous portrayal of a scorned lover whose beloved searches after other loves. And He asks the prophet Hosea to act this word out in his life by marrying a woman making her living as a prostitute. He loves, she leaves. He’s heartbroken and furious, just like the Living God Who watches His people run – not walk – after the idols of the nations.

And yet. This brokenhearted prophet’s name means salvation. God gives His people opportunities to repent. Hosea shows love again to his wife. God’s offer through Hosea is to save, avenge, preserve His covenant love with His people. His offer is one of wide open pastures in which obedience means joy and faithfulness is freedom.

Our Deliverer is indeed calling. May we listen and obey.

Next we have Hananiah whose name means “Yah has been gracious” or “Yah has favored.” If this name sounds familiar, it’s because we’ve seen it before in Nehemiah 3:8 as Hananiah a manufacturer of perfumes, 3:30 as Hananiah son of Shelemiah, and 7:2 as Hananiah “the commander of the citadel…a man of integrity [who] feared God more than most people do.”

Popular name. Our leader in today’s verse is likely the commander of the citadel as his position implies his leadership. But I do like how our perfumer or the son of Shelemiah – both of whom threw in on the wall rebuild – could easily be a leader of the people without a position or title as such. We all are, aren’t we?

If you ever wondered if you have influence, you do. There are those God has put in your sphere with whom He intends to show Himself worthy in your life. Likely in spite of you. We can do everything wrong, but because of His love for us and them, He will show up right in us. What a freeing reminder.

But let’s go back to our commander in charge of troops, a man of integrity who fears God. Do you not love that someone signing a covenant to obey Yahweh has a name which means “Yah has been gracious?” The fact that his heart is not divided – that it is integrated, full of integrity – is enough proof that Yah has indeed been gracious in his life. None of us have undivided hearts on our own. But what a relieving description of someone with military power.

Finally today we have Hasshub which means “intelligent” from chashab – to think, calculate, account, compose, consider, ponder, devise, execute, skilled worker, to weave, to fabricate, to contrive maliciously, invent, reckoning.

I appreciate how each of these descriptions for chashab could be used in a positive or negative light. Because we are made in the image of God, our ability to ponder, execute, and invent can lead to joyous work for the good of others. But because we are also very much not God and our motives never 100% pure, our calculating and devising could quickly turn to malicious contriving which harms those affected.

So what to do as people given an intelligence from our Creator? Fear Him and surrender all of ourselves daily. The more we learn, the more we hand it back over to Him, asking how He wants to use what He’s shown us. As we ponder and calculate, we dialogue with Him our conclusions, asking Him to shed light on any darkness or untruths. And when we devise, execute, and fabricate with new skills, we do so with humility that such a Most High God has orchestrated a relationship in which we fill the earth and subdue it in His likeness.

There is much in our world which warrants pondering and in which just execution is vital. For the One Whose eyes search to and fro across the earth will demand a reckoning.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Pelatiah, Hanan, Anaiah…”

Nehemiah 10:22

Last time we let some of our leaders’ names show us where to be faithful in staying and letting go, and being obedient in justice. Today we get to see more goodness in leaders.

Our first leader is Pelatiah which means “Yah has delivered” from peletah (an escape, fugitive, survivors, remnant), the feminine form of paliyt (fugitive, refugee) and from palat (carries it off, delivers, preserve, rescue, carry away, save, to slip out).

Has Yah delivered you? You gotta love that this root is a feminine form of a refugee. Perhaps He has delivered you from an abusive relationship? Maybe you are a refugee from a family which does not seek to honor God and you have found shelter in His Church? Have you been rescued from lies about your worth or His purpose for you in our generation? Perhaps you are a genuine, physical refugee – seeking refuge in a place or country not your own. And maybe you know this refuge-seeking in the spiritual sense.

I know all of us are survivors in a broken world in which patriarchal power and dominance is not in line with God’s design. God only knows none of us of the female gender get to claim innocence, but His heart toward us as daughters is one of loyalty and love.

And while we do not get to escape the pains of this world or the ravaging effects of sin, we are saved and carried away by Him soon and very soon to the place which He has prepared for us as a groom.

Next up is Hanan whom we have seen before in Nehemiah 8:7. The name means “gracious, favor” and is from chanan – beseech, to show favor, be gracious, bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior, move to favor by petition.

I saw somewhere on Twitter this week a writer extolling the virtues of the persistent widow in Jesus’ parable. Basically she made herself a nuisance. An annoyance. And Jesus encourages His closest earthly friends – with whom He shared all of His life for three years – to become that annoying to the Father in how they “pray and never give up.”

Except I don’t think it annoys Him. What do you think? When we seek His face about issues which are unjust or distressing, blatantly biased or painfully partisan, do you think He prefers that we take it to His lap? Me, too. Mostly because He’s asking us to do it. We’re going to feel the sting and aggravation either way. Should probably deal with it in His presence. It moves Him to favor.

Finally today we have Anaiah which means “Yah has answered” from anah – to answer, respond, sing, shout, testify, announce. Such a rich name meaning. I realized at church this week I was sitting next to a precious family who had lost a 23-year-old family member just days before. In the meantime I was excitedly awaiting a friend getting baptized into newness of life – the rushing waters representing her second birth into His kingdom.

How do we testify to a watching world with such highs and lows?

Yeah, I’m not sure either, but may those definitions be true of us as His people. We who know we’re not the Messiah so we announce He Who is. Who can painfully testify we are not in control, but have found Him Who can be trusted with ultimate power. And who, while perhaps not responding with a perfect answer to all of life’s disturbing questions, can sing a song of Truth and shed tears for that which we don’t understand.

Because the fact that He came and shared in it all with us is enough to know Yah has answered.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Meshezabel, Zadok, Jaddua…”

Nehemiah 10:21

Last time we looked quite closely at moths, interestingly enough, and praised Jesus He is the ultimate destroyer of destruction. Today we get to dive into the next three leaders’ names.

To begin we have Meshezabel a name to which we were first introduced in Nehemiah 3:4. It means “God delivers” from shezab: leave, free, deliver, and azab: to leave, forsake, loose.

There are so many things to which we are called to be faithful. We will stand before God and give an account for how we remained faithful in relationships with healthy boundaries, committed to promises, and saw projects through to completion. However, there will be things He will ask us about that we were told to leave: bitterness, unbelief, pride, injustice, bigotry. Things to which He opened prison doors and encouraged us to forsake: generational sin, worldly wisdom, selfishness, myopic vision.

Hear me as someone who, like our pastor said this morning, does not want to be corrected. Does not want to be wrong. These do not always feel like an invitation to more, but they are. These are one way tickets to freedom and joy, purpose and genuine community. Being able to loose ourselves from their chains brings lightness, intimacy, and connection.

And do you not love to Whom our leader’s name points as the One delivering? Praise God He’s not asking us to pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps. We don’t have to behavior modification ourselves out of these things alone. We get to cooperate with the type of power that brings back a pulse where there is none, lifts a resurrected God-Man up to the heavens, and seats Him at El Elyon’s right hand. Serious power. Let us repent and cooperate.

Next we have Zadok whose name we first saw in Nehemiah 3:29. It comes from tsadeq – just, righteous, acquit, made you right, properly restore, proved right, vindicated, cleanse, clear self, make right.

This is such a fascinating definition as I hear about the recent movie, Just Mercy. With the brokenness of our nation’s justice system and the knowledge many are unjustly sentenced to prison, words such as “acquit, proved right, clear self, vindicated” are especially poignant.

Can you even imagine having multiple witnesses who prove you did not commit a crime, yet being sentenced to death anyway? Or watching as your neighborhood and friends and family are under constant surveillance while others roam free? Or knowing you are part of a tough on crime policy which disproportionately affects you?

I’m so grateful we have a Savior Who does know. And more than that, moves His followers to do something about it. Sometimes the embodiment of our faith hits me afresh and I cannot believe how grateful I am to serve a God Who came to serve, love a God Who experienced it all. He is so far from aloof and tender in mercy at our broken condition. He has made us right, properly restores us to the Father that we might join Him in restoring our world. Cleansed from sin and in right standing because of our Jehovah Tsidkenu. 

Let’s worship again today. Then let our worship make us wise advocates.

Finally in today’s verse we have the leader Jaddua. His name comes from yada – to know, ability, acknowledge, bring forth, chosen, clearly understand, consider, concern, discern, experience, take notice, teach, understand, very well know, well aware.

Speaking of wise, our final leader’s name seems to have it all: knowledge, skills, discernment, and perception. Wonder if he lived up to his name? Wonder if we let His Spirit inside us bring forth such treasures in our lives?

Help us acknowledge every ability You give us. Grant us Your gift of discernment, and patience to consider and take notice what You show us. Teach us and give us opportunities to pass on the lessons. And may we be well aware of where You’re moving in and around us.

And thank You that Your works are wonderful – and we can know that very well.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir…”

Nehemiah 10:20

Last time we saw some leaders whose names showed us the fruitful margins. Today we see the next three leaders of our returned exiles.

First up is Magpiash whose name only occurs in this verse. It is from nagaph (smite, strike, dash, hurt, slay) and ash (moth). So it basically means “exterminator of the moth.”

As someone who rarely thinks about moths, I looked up some information on how they are good for our ecosystem. Apparently they are not simply the small grayish insect we tend to think of. There are “11,000 moth species in the United States alone,” meaning we could confuse these guys for more colorful butterflies.

In addition, they are an important part of the food chain, particularly for bats and birds. And due to their hairy bodies, they easily pick up pollen from whatever flower they land on and distribute it in flight. (Source)

But my favorite tidbit is the following:

“Moths also play a vital role in telling us about the health of our environment, like the canary in the coalmine. Since they are so widespread and found in so many different habitats, and are so sensitive to changes, moths are particularly useful as indicator species. Monitoring their numbers and ranges can give us vital clues to changes in our own environment, such as the effects of new farming practices, pesticides, air pollution and climate change…” (Source)

If that isn’t a word for our burning planet today, I’m not sure what is.

Now that we have seen the positives of this insect, let’s dive into the fact that in the Word, moths are a reference to decay and destruction.

“When you discipline a man
    with rebukes for sin,
you consume like a moth what is dear to him;
    surely all mankind is a mere breath!”

Psalm 39:11

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Matthew 6:19-21

So in our case today, Magpiash’s name would be “the exterminator of destruction.”

Sounds like Shalom to me.

In our war-weary world we are desperate for peace. Peace for our broken promises and broken relationships; peace for our hurting bodies and soul anxieties. We yearn for peace from selfish ambition and generations of conflict.

“Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it.”

James 4:1-2 (MSG)

Thank You, Jesus, You destroyed ultimate destruction. We can be secure because of You, even in our rocky tenure on an insecure planet. And what we entrust to You is never destroyed.

Our next name listed is Meshullam which comes from shalam – allied, amends, to be complete or sound, finish, give again, make good, be safe, friendly, reciprocate, recompense, restitution, restore. We have seen this name as a priest, a local, and one standing beside Ezra reading the Word on the platform in Nehemiah 3:4, 3:30, 6:18, 8:4, 10:7.

Today’s leader is likely the man standing beside Ezra as the Law is proclaimed to the people. As I wrote on this name before:

“You may have noticed this word [shalam] looks much like shalom – completeness, soundness, welfare, peace. Shalam seems to be what we as people can do to cooperate with God as He ushers in shalom: finish arguments, make amends; restore what was broken or stolen, and make restitution for injustice done – individually and corporately. To ally ourselves with those who also seek His kingdom come, giving again if necessary. To ask Him to help us find our worth in Him so these things are possible in our naturally self-protective tendencies.”

Yes, His peace will make us one. His kingdom come, His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.

Our final name listed in today’s veres is Hezir, which comes from chazir – swine, boar, enclosed as a hog. Today is one of those days when I question the families who named some of our leaders. Nevertheless, we should ask ourselves what we can learn today from such a definition: swine, boar, enclosed hog.

From what I know from Torah of pigs being unclean for the Israelites, I am quite sure this meaning would not have been popular among our returned exiles. But then again, most of the community was relearning what God’s Law even said for them as His ambassadors to a watching world.

Could the same be said for us in our generation? For those who do not claim to follow Jesus of Nazareth, would watching us give them an appropriate picture of His majesty, beauty, splendor, and worth? Further, would our lives and ultimate allegiances reflect the likes of Daniel, Paul, John or Jeremiah? Finally, would the way we live be a representation of a Kingdom which requires everything and nothing, grows to bless, welcomes with grace, and never ends?

We will never be perfect ambassadors this side of eternity. But in which direction are you headed? Are we headed?

May all see His worth in our ways.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Hariph, Anathoth, Nebai…”

Nehemiah 10:19

Last time we met some of the covenant-signing leaders, letting their name meanings turn us toward a God Who came. Today we see the next three names.

First up is Hariph whose name comes from charaph – to betroth (surrender), reproach, blaspheme, defy, insult, scorn, revile, taunt, expose. Not the loveliest of meanings, huh?

In fact, betroth is the only one which seems joyful. Of course, we all know situations in which marriage is not happy: domestic violence, adultery, abuse. But to be betrothed to a beloved is one of God’s purest gifts.

So what to do with defy, insult, expose? What can such definitions say to us today? My thoughts immediately turn to how opposite they are of the fruit of the Spirit. If we as believers are walking in step with the Spirit inside, taunting, scorning, blaspheming God or others should be the last thing to characterize our lives.

So how are we doing? Does insulting or reviling another sound familiar? If not in our real lives, how about our social media feeds? We are all more prone to swagger when there’s a screen between us and a real live human. But others really will know we are His disciples by our love for each other.

Next signing is Anathoth whose name comes from anah – to testify, answer, respond, sing, shout, announce. What a brilliant name for a leader of God’s people. I love how the first three words of this definition are in response to others.

Have you ever thought about how Peter instructs us to prepare an answer when asked about the hope we have? It implies others will see how we handle hopeless situations and inquire why we still have hope. Do our lives and understanding of the gospel cause others to be dumbfounded at our hope? Can we expectantly hold on during Jesus-promised trials, clinging to Hope Himself? Would others ever take you by the shoulders and go, “What is up? How are you still hopeful?”

I think it should be stated that the question isn’t, “How are you still smiling?” or “How are you so happy?” Genuine gospel hope is comfortable with genuine grief and sorrow. But hope? We can have that no matter what. We are called to it.

The second list of three synonyms are things our lives can display whether others take us by the shoulders or simply ignore us: sing, shout, announce. Horrible atrocities happen daily around this weary globe. As we weep, serve, pray, vote, advocate, and volunteer, may we also announce the only Answer. May He give us songs to sing in the battle. Worship is a form of battle, you know. May our words and art, work and leisure announce Another. May His presence be unmistakable, shouting to all who interact with us.

Now we have Nebai, whose name only occurs in this verse. It “comes from nob – fruit, to produce fruit, literally or figuratively; Nebai: from the margin.”

So beautiful, yes? Not only that a leader’s root meaning is fruitful, but that it would imply this fruit comes from the margins. Sorry if you’re not a Star Wars fan, but our family saw Rise of Skywalker this past weekend. Best line?

“How are they doing this? They don’t have a Navy.”

“Sir, it’s not a navy. It’s just…people.”

Indeed, darkness wants to convince us we’re all alone. Or those in obvious power are calling all the shots. But in the margins is where Jesus shines.

How can you know if you’re paying attention to the margins? Well, since white, middle to upper class men have held the predominate narrative in this country, ask yourself who does not fit that description. Then discover all you can from them. Folks like:

Women of color, disabled people, indigenous folks, Jews, men of color, immigrants, those struggling to keep a job or home or off an addiction. Jesus is at work among those who do not always have an elevated platform. And He promises they’re the happy ones. Let’s learn from them.

As I type this on New Year’s Day, with intentions and goals for the next 12 months, my desire is to not be the same at this time next year. I want contentment with the good and holy discontent with evil. I want to be characterized by prayer, gratitude, and generosity, not selfishness, greed, or gluttony. I want to open the doorway for self-control to reign and for it to flood all facets of my life.

How about you? What fruit would you like your life characterized by? Will your inspiration come from the margins? Will you sing, shout, and testify when appropriate? Will you allow the Spirit’s fruit to bloom in your life?

We don’t need a Navy or even an elaborate plan. We simply get to bow again in 2020, asking for strength, surrendering to His work, joining where He’s moving, and loving Him and others.

Let’s do it together.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Ater, Hezekiah, Azzur,

Hodiah, Hashum, Bezai…”

Nehemiah 10:17-18

Last time we looked into the next several leaders whose names encouraged us to live like our Master is Yah. Today we meet six more leaders of the people who purposed to follow Jehovah.

We begin with Ater whose name means “maimed, to shut up, close, bind, bend, curve, what surrounds, encloses.” We have seen him back in Nehemiah 7:21 when we got to see how God used this root word in the context of protecting His people from harm.

It is one thing to know we are spiritually surrounded, enclosed in the curve of our Father’s strong arm; it is another to experience that joy. While we do not always get to sense His presence binding our wounds or experience the joy of Him seeming to bend down just for us to provide deliverance, if He does grant us that great gift, may we rejoice.

And no matter what circumstances we happen to be in this day, we get the privilege of celebrating He ultimately came, bending down in humility to feel embarrassment and experience excitement. To be angry at injustice and require sleep. It is humble of Him because our flesh is so limiting. And scary. We are fragile and yet so good at attacking one another. And He came down into it. Maiming the enemy, shutting up death, opening wide heaven’s door and enclosing those who choose Him into His family.

Hezekiah is our next listed leader, which is interesting as King Hezekiah is in Ater’s lineage. Likely named after this famous king, our leader’s title means “Yah has strengthened,” from Yah and chazaq – to grow firm or strong, strengthen.

Next we have Azzur whose name means “helpful,” from Azar – to help, ally, further, protect, restrain, support, surround, aid.

Have you ever known a genuine helper? One who seems most satisfied with furthering another’s plan, supporting them with whatever is required? I have and they are often my favorite people. Not desiring the spotlight for themselves, these servants most likely show up when practical aid is needed. They are most living into their spiritual giftedness when others are relieved of certain duties by them so they may fully focus on what they feel called to do.

To me these are the ones who are most at risk of an eye saying to the hand, “I don’t need you.” While sincere helpers are not out for applause, they are likely to be taken for granted. But we certainly notice when they aren’t around! If a group is made up of only those with “out front” giftings, look out. May we all remember our giftings have everything to do with serving each other and honoring God as His Body.

Our next leader listed is Hodiah, which is the feminine form of Yehudi – Jewish. So this essentially means Jewess, which is fascinating. While this refers to a male leader, the meaning points to the female portion of the people.

As I type this on Christmas Eve, my thoughts turn to Mary, along with the male-dominated culture in which she said yes to God.

Do you think she worried about the whispers? What did she think when Joseph decided to divorce her quietly? Did she love him? Was she full of shame or was the knowledge she hadn’t broken her vows enough to keep her head held high? Do you think she wondered about being stoned? Surely she knew if an angel had told her she would birth the Messiah, they would both be spared such a fate.

And I’m so touched by God’s tenderness to give her Elizabeth during these early processing days. And with the reassurance of Elizabeth’s proclamation of the child in her womb being the Lord, Mary, full of the Spirit, could not help but preach of God’s goodness!

Two women, in similarly surprising situations, filled with the Spirit and delighting in God’s choice of them to advance the Kingdom. Yes, God’s plan for women – no matter the current cultural climate – will not be stopped. He always bestows dignity on His daughters.

Our next leader is Hashum which comes from chashman – ambassador, wealthy princes. Such a stark contrast from humble Mary and Joseph to wealthy princes. And yet, some of the highest on the social and economic ladder were seeking the Messiah as well.

What does the fact He came for all do to you? That lowly shepherds and men who could afford to travel months and offer pure gold and costly spices could both find Him? Surely it must speak to us about God drawing all people to Himself. And those who with ears to hear respond by falling on their faces in worship.

Our final leader’s name is of uncertain derivation: Bezai which means “domineering,” perhaps from bus – to tread down, trample (literally or figuratively), loathe, squirm, under foot, be polluted.

I watched The Nativity Story yesterday, which always helps me remember why the Jewish nation was looking so forward to a liberating Messiah. Paying taxes to a polytheistic Ceaser, children taken to pay debts, a tyrannical king killing all little boys in his paranoia, political oversight of worshipping the way Yahweh had commanded.

Yes, the people likely felt trampled and polluted under such a dictatorship. And yet their long-awaited King would avenge not with a sword but servanthood. Though King of all kings He would not wage war as the world does. Instead He trampled the ultimate enemy for all people, underneath His beautiful feet.

I am oh so glad He came for more than politically setting free one nation. And could our current political climate stand to see His will and ways through a larger lens as well? Perhaps the movement and activity of God takes a much wider angle than our tribalistic tendencies? He may even move right past our party lines and pet ideologies – right into the hearts of those who seek more.

It is too small a thing this Christmas to shove the Creator of the Universe, wrapped in swaddling clothes, in a box. Let’s let Him out – He’s not in there anyway, cannot be contained. But for our sakes may we lift the lid and open our eyes to His leading today.

And you can be sure He’ll be found where His glory is of utmost importance.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the leaders of the people:]

…Bunni, Azgad, Bebai,

Adonijah, Bigvai, Adin…”

Nehemiah 10:15-16

Last time we began our investigation into the leaders of the people who signed a covenant with Yahweh, reminded of how God calls us to justice and authenticity as we follow Him. Today we see the next three names.

First up is Bunni, whose name comes from the same root as Bani from last week: banah – to build/rebuild. While we have seen this root word multiple times lately, I’ve been thinking how appropriate it is to this Advent season.

Building not only implies creating something new, it can refer to an increased longing. We sometimes say the anticipation is building. And while we know Christmas will come, the waiting builds the longing.

And when Christmas is over and there seems a long stretch of winter, the waiting builds longing still. Longing for it all to be made right. Rebuilding our hopes that we will see God move, again, in the new year. Anticipating we will not be ashamed but will reap a harvest as we do not grow weary in doing good. Building and rebuilding in seasonal cycles, over and over, until He comes again.

Our next leader is Azgad whose name means “Gad is mighty” or stern troop. It’s from az (mighty, strong, fierce, powerful, greedy, harsh) and gad (good fortune, invade, raid, crowd in upon – in the sense of distributing).

I think a powerful warrior king is implied in this meaning. And as our exiles returned and rebuilt Jerusalem, then as the prophets went silent and Rome grew mighty, God’s people could not help but hope for such a warrior to come and fight for them. To turn back their enemies and put them on top – with power, influence, and might.

But that wasn’t how He came was it? Though a descendant of David, the Root of Jesse would not sit on an earthly throne. Rather, He came to sheep herders and foreign astrologers, to humble parents and manual labor. And oh, thank You God, He came with a heartbeat and tears, emotions and logic. Able to become one of us yet be the Maker of us all.

His kingdom indeed would have no end, but it would not be of this world or immediately erase our suffering. Fortunately, it would conquer the one thing we needed most: sin and death. Completely mocked it, giving us access to power and right relationship and hope. Yes, a mighty, distributing King indeed.

Our next leader’s name does not give us a trail to follow. It is Bebai, whose origin is apparently not from Hebrew. So let’s reaquaint ourselves with Adonijah, whom we have seen here before. His name means “my Lord is Yahweh,” from adon – lord, husband, master, owner and Yah.

So much to say about this meaning. While I believe the Word is clear husbands and wives belong to each other, it does make me squirm when husband, master, and owner are listed in the same definition. And then I get to breathe again when I remind myself the name put together means Yahweh is my master. Our ultimate husband, the One Who will always, only satisfy our every emotional need and be worthy of worship.

This allows me to trust a human husband because I trust the God Man first. It helps us also stand up to anything in a marriage which goes against our primary allegiance to Him, the only way to truly love. Indeed, may our master be Yah.

Next up we have another name whose root word is unclear. Bigvai is listed next, which perhaps means “happy.” I’m not sure why scholars think this, but there are worse name meanings, yes?

What does that word happy do to you today? Are you walking in happiness or somewhere near it? Or does it grate due to your lack? Fortunately, God does not force us to put on happy faces if we’re suffering. When we suffer. He knows what it’s like to be left alone, confused, and betrayed. To be tempted to rely on self instead of His Father, and watch those He loves suffer. He even knows what it’s like to be the object of whispers and grow up with rumors about His family.

And yet I believe Jesus often walked on this broken planet in happiness. I think He found joy in work and delight in His family. I think He loved parties and people, animals and adventure. While the desert climate likely did not lend itself to snow angels, do you think He enjoyed weather changes and walks? I believe He loved flowers and belly laughs, children and warm, fresh bread. I think He embraced the prescribed feasts and sacred holidays with gusto.

In the advent, between the Advents, may we delight in happiness when it presents itself. Let us not feel guilty in our joy, even while the pain persists. It’s part of how we go from strength to strength.

And when it’s all just too much, we get the privilege of pouring our hearts out to Him. Our lament is welcomed, commanded, and a precious treasure to our God. Then we can get up and walk again, this day, with Him in what He’s called us to, borrowing His happiness.

Our final leader listed today is Adin, from the same meaning as eden – a luxury, dainty, delight, pleasure. Eden’s root is adan – to luxuriate, revel in.

It fascinates me this is the name of the place in which God settled the first humans. That He would give His creation a luxurious, pleasurable world in which to revel. With purposeful work, intimate relationships with Him and each other, savory cuisine, fruit sweeter than candy, and astonishing beauty.

I’m grateful He not only made such luxury, but He entered into it. He knows what it feels like to bite into succulent lamb, a fig so luscious He may have closed His eyes. To throw His head back in laughter and delight in loved ones. To weep unselfconsciously when those loved ones suffered in this weary world. To cling to joy in the midst of sorrow.

Yes, this God-Man has fully felt. Fully feels. As human leaders we are privileged to follow suit.

No other god. Jesus the One and Only.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…]

the leaders of the people:

Parosh, Pahath-Moab, Elam, Zattu, Bani…”

Nehemiah 10:14

Last time we looked at the final Levites who signed the covenant, remembering we belong to each other as we build and rebuild at His lead.

Today we move to the next section of names who signed the covenant: the leaders. Leaders in Hebrew is rosh – head. Beginning, best things, bodyguard, captain, sum, end, laughingstock, finest, first, and topmost are other meanings of this word.

Once again we see such opposites. Beginning and best things in the same definition as end and laughingstock. And yet, leadership does imply all of it. If we are given an area of leadership and think we are the beginning and end of it all – the project, results, opinions, or expectations of anyone following – the movement is likely already sunk. It cannot be about us if it is to be about His kingdom.

At the same time, when God is asking us to lead, it does imply a beginning. Someone willing to step out first in faith and see if the direction is indeed in step with His Spirit. And leadership implies an end, the last. After all, we are walking with a Savior Who said the first shall be last, the last first.

Any time we seek to take people where God wants them to go (read: leadership), we must be willing to be last. To wash feet and serve more than call out orders or inspire vision. Followers must trust our hearts before they can trust the direction we’re asking them to go.

And, of course, the most sobering aspect of leadership is we are the head of the project, the people, the end results. When things go awry, we are the ones to whom the responsibility falls. The captains, bodyguards of the direction the group moves. Sometimes, like our Savior, this could result in being a laughingstock. At least in the worldly sense.

Even if we as leaders follow the Leader as best we know how, walking with others in the Kingdom will always look foolish to this world. Laying down our rights, not insisting on our own way, looking at the setbacks as God-given opportunities for Him to show up is quite the opposite of bottom line profit gaining.

And yet it is the only way to one day stand before Him with integrity. Putting people over profit or product matters. Friends, if God has given us areas in which others look to us to lead, let’s bow daily at the fearsome thing to which we will one day be held accountable, then stand in His Spirit, willing to step out in faith first.

Our first leader listed is Parosh. We have seen this name mentioned only briefly in Nehemiah 3:25 as the father of Pedaiah. The strange thing is it means “a flea or isolated insect.” It comes from the root word para – to avenge, expose, dismiss, avoid, perish, let go. To make the full name, para is combined with ash (a moth) or ashesh (to waste away).

So: a flea, isolated insect, dismissed moth, to waste away. Any way you look at it, it’s not good, huh? The name implies someone to avoid. How heartbreaking. How difficult to go through life with a name with such a meaning.

So let’s chat. Who in our society is exposed, dismissed, let go of? I automatically think of lepers in Jesus’ day, but how about ours? Asking myself at the same time, who might you avoid if you saw them coming? What people group is perishing due to systemic sin? Who in our world needs avenging due to injustice?

These are questions which, frankly, are inconvenient. They disrupt our comfortable lives and force excuses, when really all it takes is time and love. God is not even asking us to fix everything. Just be a voice, vote, make others aware, support one area, refrain from financing another known for inhumane practices. Or on a relational level, spend time, listen, share with boundaries. And pray. Never stop praying, friends. May no person or group feel like an isolated insect during our tenure.

Pahath-Moab (Neh. 3:11 and 7:11) – a post exilic name meaning pit of Moab. Some real rough name meanings this time around, huh? When I hear pit, I don’t usually think of something good. And, of course, the Moabites were enemies of Israel pre-exile. Makes me wonder why his mother named him this?

An interesting tidbit is how it also means “from the mother’s father” – from the prefix m and ab. Which I suppose could explain why his mother chose the name. Not all biblical names were chosen with favorable meanings (see Genesis 29 with Leah and Naomi in the book of Ruth).

Speaking of Ruth, in her we get to see a well-known example of someone from Moab. Ruth was a Moabitess and is listed in the lineage of King Jesus. A beautiful example of God’s redemption, His open arms to those who seek to worship Him, and a lovely reminder this day before our first Sunday in Advent.

Indeed, our Lord came through humble means with both a perfectly-divine lineage and an imperfectly-human one as well. No other way to be God with us, Immanuel. May we never get over the incarnation.

The final two names, Zattu and Bani, do not lead us to interesting places this time around. Zattu is of uncertain derivation, and we saw the name Bani last time, which comes from banah – to build, rebuild.

So instead, let’s end with Elam, whose name means “son of Shem.” While it isn’t known for certain, it likely comes from the root word alam – to conceal, disregard, neglect, pay no attention, pretenders, secret, veil from sight.

May these descriptions never be true of us. May we never deny the truth, pretending or concealing when we are perfectly loved. Let us never disregard others, paying no attention to image bearers. And when we do, when these descriptions are true in our lives, may we not neglect to confess and make it right. The veil is torn, no more need to unsuccessfully veil from His sight our shortcomings. He knows. No need to be pretenders, friends.

There has never been a more genuine Leader than Him to show us the way.

“[The document was ratified and sealed with…the following Levites…]

Hodiah, Bani and Beninu…”

Nehemiah 10:13

Last time we saw four Levites whose names point out how Yah regards us, even as He sends burning heat. Today we see the final three Levite names listed who signed the covenant to obey Yahweh.

Hodiah is first, obviously the name of two Levites, as we just saw it three verses ago in 10:10. If you remember, it means “My Splendor is Yah,” a meaning of which we could all use reminding.

Up next is Bani whose name we have seen several times throughout this book, including Nehemiah 3:17, 8:7, and 9:4-5. The name is from banah – to build, fortify, rebuild, restore, obtain children, repair.

The general sense of this definition is proactive, intentional action: to build something new, to rebuild what has broken, to restore what has been marred, to fortify what is good that needs protected, to build a family – spiritual or relational or physical – through a lineage.

Have you ever thought about how building, creating, restoring as humans is so reflective of the heart of our God Who is on the move? If you picture a distant, slightly uninvolved deity when thinking of Yahweh, I encourage you to grab your Bible. Our God has always been active throughout His recorded movement among humanity, and is even now: building His church, rebuilding broken people and relationships, restoring lost Shalom.

It takes such pressure off, doesn’t it? And yet, can light a healthy fire under us to become part of such restoration – without all the ego involved. It’s what our Maker is already doing. What He chose us in Christ Jesus to do – good works prepared in advance for us.

Our final Levite to sign the covenant is Beninu. While the meaning is uncertain, it is most likely “our son” from ben meaning “son, afflicted, anointed, child, descendants, offspring, unfortunate, valiant, warriors, young, youths, wicked.”

Such varied definitions here, yes? Afflicted and unfortunate and wicked among descendants, anointed, young, valiant, and warrior. While it is not likely one names their child to be known as wicked or afflicted, I find the juxtaposition interesting.

In what ways can we be young and valiant, yet unfortunate? How are we like warriors but also wicked? And are we not both anointed by God and afflicted while on this earth?

I think it can be us all, depending on the day. The moment. Our hearts can be so divided that wickedness can just as likely come out of our mouths as something pure. And we can be among God’s chosen descendants, heir to all the riches of heaven, yet live as if we are unfortunate. We can be valiant warriors in His Spirit, yet live like youths with no training.

The good news is that little word our in the “our son” definition. If the name were simply Ben, it could easily just mean son. But it seems Beninu implies a collectiveness to the word.

Belonging matters, doesn’t it? Son, a son, versus our son. We belong to one another, friends. Particularly if we are among the family of God. We are His and we are each others’.

And the precious Son, the only Son of God, is ours as well. Not as in we own Him, but we belong to Him because of what He never owed but freely gave for us.

And the true Valiant Warrior crushed wickedness itself to set us free.