The days when Israel returned to Jerusalem, rebuilt the temple and walls, and worshiped God were high points in Israel’s history. But they weren’t even close to the highest. What could be better than a brand-spanking-new temple? I’ll tell you: God’s dwelling with us. What could be better than all God’s people hearing God’s word and wanting to obey? I’ll tell you. Having God’s law written on our hearts (see Jer. 31:31–34).

When Jesus came, he did these better things. By paying for our sins on the cross, he made a way for God’s Spirit to dwell inside us. On top of that he made a way for our very hearts to change. All who believe in Jesus are born again, with new hearts that have God’s law written on them. If the people in Nehemiah’s day had reason to gather around God’s word and worship, then we have all the more reason!