Nehemiah And Jesus
By Michael English
Summary: This is a radio-style piece
that compares the trials faced by Nehemiah and Jesus. It is suitable for use as a three-voice meditation.
Bible Reference: Nehemiah 6, Mark 8:31
Characters: Narrator, Nehemiah, Jesus
Props: None
Setting: None
Narrator: God inspired Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, to restore the honour of the city. But the task was not an easy one. There were continual distractions. At one time his enemies tried to arrange a meeting in the plain away from Jerusalem where they hoped to attack him:
Nehemiah: But I sent messages to say to them, "I am doing important work and can't go down there. I am not going to let the work stop because of you."
Narrator: For Jesus, it was those closest to him who provided the distraction:
Jesus: The Son of Man must suffer much and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the Law. He will be put to death, but three days later he will rise to life.
Narrator: Peter took Jesus aside to rebuke him, but it was Jesus who rebuked Peter.
Jesus: Get away from me Satan. Your thoughts don't come from God but from your human nature.
All: Father: forgive us when our human nature gets in the way of your work.
Narrator: So the enemies of Nehemiah started rumours about him, but he replied:
Nehemiah: Nothing of what you are saying is true.
Narrator: Jesus said this:
Jesus: Happy are you when people insult you and tell all kinds of evil lies against you because you are my followers. Be happy and be glad, for a great reward is kept for you in heaven.
Narrator: We are familiar with rumours: at work, in the family, at church.
All: Father: keep our words truthful and wise, that they might bring wholeness and life rather than sorrow.
Narrator: Now Nehemiah did not give up, even when his own life was threatened:
Nehemiah: I realised that God had not spoken to Shemaiah, but that our enemies had bribed him to give me this warning. They had hired him to frighten me into sinning, so they could ruin my reputation and humiliate me.
Narrator: Nor did Jesus give up because of the cross.
Jesus: Father, my father. All things are possible for you. Take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet, not what I want, but what you want.
All: Father, make us strong in our faith and in our resolve to do what is right no matter what others might say or do, for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord and our example.
This script is Copyright 2001 Michael English, All Saints Milton. Permission is given to use this drama in non-profit making church events provided the source is acknowledged. Some editing may be required to suit local conditions. Please let us know if you have any comments.