Chapter 21

Over time, the people of Judah returned

home from their exile in Babylon. The first group

to return to Jerusalem was very large-about

50,000 people. They rebuilt the temple. The

second group of people returned under the

leadership of Ezra the priest. A third group

returned with Nehemiah. That group started

rebuilding the walls around the city of Jerusalem

and God’s holy temple. It wasn’t an easy task

because the local people weren’t happy and did

everything they could think of to stop the work.

Nehemiah was living in Persia serving the

king. He was sad when he heard that the beautiful

city built by David and Solomon was now just a

pile of stones.

Nehemiah prayed to God and decided, “I must

do something. I will go and help the people

rebuild Jerusalem!”

Once he got permission from the king,

Nehemiah journeyed to Jerusalem. He was ready

to start rebuilding the walls so the people could

be protected from their enemies.

While the city slept, Nehemiah and his men

rode their horses around the outside of Jerusalem

to inspect the broken walls and come up with a

plan to fix them.

The next day, Nehemiah gathered the Jewish

leaders and explained the plan. “Each citizen will

be responsible for repairing the part of the wall

that’s in front of his home or shop.”

The people worked hard and at first the work

went well. But then some of their enemies started

to cause trouble. They made fun of Nehemiah and

his plan. But Nehemiah told them to mind their

own business.

When the walls were halfway finished, the

builders became tired and discouraged. They

worried the neighboring enemies would hurt

them while they worked. Nehemiah knew how to

encourage the people. “Don’t be afraid,” said

Nehemiah. “Remember the Lord. He is great and

powerful.”

To protect the new walls and safeguard the

people, Nehemiah posted guards. He instructed

the workers to carry a weapon. The builders

worked with a spear at their side or a sword on

their belt. The walls and the people were safe.

When the walls were completed, the people

celebrated. The priests and officials divided the

people into two groups. They marched around the

walls in opposite directions and met at the temple

for a thanksgiving service and a great feast.

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