Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.
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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 12:43
The work on the walls of Jerusalem was finished! The preparations for the festivities marking that accomplishment were completed. The impossible had happened. The dream had become a reality. The lack of resources was filled. The people had completed a herculean task that no one, not even themselves, had thought could be accomplished. Yet there they were! Four walls standing tall and strong! And today? Today was a day to celebrate! As I read this passage in Nehemiah, three words jumped out at me that all of us who work for Loma Linda University Health could relate to.
The first word was “sacrifices.” As you become acquainted with the history of Loma Linda, you will read and hear stories of men and women who were more than willing to make sacrifices of their time and means and lives to “continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ” in the halls of medical care and academics. Every day we are surrounded by men and women making the same kind of sacrifices. Doing things that matter and transform lives always requires sacrifices — both personally and professionally. We willingly sacrifice to a greater good or a purpose greater than ourselves
The second word was “joyous.” Although we may be making sacrifices, are we being joyous? Work is hard. That’s why it is called work! However, any burden is lightened when we have joy. A mother forgets the pains of delivery for the joy of holding her newborn. A surgeon forgets the tedious, taut hours of delicate surgery when the patient pulls through and the procedure is a success. The same holds true for any position you and I hold. Are you a joy-filled person? Each day do you take moments to savor your joy? Joy for being employed. Joy for making a difference. Joy for being alive! Share that joy with your fellow Loma Linda University Health-ers!
The third word was “given” — specifically “God had given.” This is the most powerful of the three. In fact, according to the passage, it is what empowered the other two. It is such a trite thing to say, but we are all so busy. I am not about to condemn or correct you for your busyness. However, what I do want to talk about are the consequences of our busyness. Busyness blocks us from taking time to see God and His actions in our lives. He gives us life. He gives us the resources to face the things of life. He lives life with us. Take a moment and see that He is good! Be joyous and celebrate!