KEY VERSE: “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels. For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, ‘Peace be within you.’ For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity.” (Psalm 122:6-9, LSG)

Nehemiah’s lasting connection to the land of his ancestors testifies to the importance of passing down our cultural heritage to future generations. He valued Jerusalem not only as a historical site but also as the land of his forefathers.

Just as Nehemiah’s attachment to Jerusalem was passed down from generation to generation, we are called to instill in our children the significance of our cultural and ancestral heritage. By doing so, we ensure that our identities remain firmly rooted in the values, traditions, and lands of our ancestors. We read in Deuteronomy 6:7 (LSG):

“Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.“

This commandment highlights the importance of consistently and intentionally transmitting our faith and heritage to the next generation. It encourages us to discuss our cultural and spiritual values in various aspects of life.

As parents, guardians, and mentors, let us draw inspiration from Nehemiah’s example and the guidance found in Deuteronomy. By passing on the richness of our heritage to our children, we contribute to preserving identity and ensuring the continuation of a legacy that spans generations.

PRAYER

Father, use me as an agent to transmit an ancestral heritage that glorifies You to future generations. Amen.

APPLICATION

How can we make our heritage a living and relevant part of our lives and those of our descendants?

This text is an excerpt from the book NEHEMIAH, RISE UP, Vol.1 Devotional written by Pastor Gregory Toussaint.

We invite you to read the next article: “The Power of Language and Cultural Understanding.”