Enjoy this message from Pastor Tyler Schoenberger called "Let The Ruins Come To Life." on Sunday,

October 26, 2025 at Reach Church in Bear, Delaware!

The ruins in our lives and communities can feel overwhelming, whether they involve damaged relationships, struggling churches, or personal areas needing restoration. The story of Nehemiah provides a powerful blueprint for how God brings dead things back to life through faithful service. When the people decided to rebuild Jerusalem's walls, immediate opposition arose from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, who mocked their efforts. This pattern remains true today - meaningful rebuilding always faces resistance, setbacks, and discouragement. However, the presence of opposition might actually indicate that something spectacular lies ahead.Nehemiah chapter 3 reveals the secret to successful restoration: everyone doing their part. Dozens of people are listed by name, each faithfully working on their specific section of the wall. Yet verse 5 stands out negatively, noting that the Tekoite nobles would not stoop to serve their lord, considering the work beneath them.

This prideful attitude mirrors our modern excuses for avoiding service - claiming we're too busy, have done enough, or that someone else will handle it.Jesus transformed our understanding of service by modeling radical humility. He stooped down to serve us by taking human form and dying on the cross for our salvation. This gospel motivation changes everything - we serve not from guilt or shame, but from joy and love. The Macedonian churches exemplified this transformation, giving generously despite extreme poverty because they had been touched by God's grace. They saw service as a privilege, not a burden. Ruins come to life through years of unseen faithfulness rather than dramatic moments. Ezra worked faithfully in the background for 13 years before his pivotal moment in Nehemiah chapter 8. God calls us to show up consistently in mundane tasks, knowing that faithfulness in small corners prepares us for greater purposes.