“All Israel was listed in the genealogies recorded in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah. They were taken captive to Babylon because of their unfaithfulness. 2 Now the first to resettle on their own property in their own towns were some Israelites, priests, Levites and temple servants.” 1 Chronicles 9:1-2 NKJV
“But the four principal gatekeepers, who were Levites, were entrusted with the responsibility for the rooms and treasuries in the house of God. 27 They would spend the night stationed around the house of God, because they had to guard it; and they had charge of the key for opening it each morning. 28 Some of them were in charge of the articles used in the temple service; they counted them when they were brought in and when they were taken out. 29 Others were assigned to take care of the furnishings and all the other articles of the sanctuary, as well as the special flour and wine, and the olive oil, incense and spices.” 1 Chronicles 9:26-29 NKJV
Lord God,
You are the God of nations, families and individuals. When we get to passages of the Bible, as now, we are faced with 9 chapters of genealogies, we struggle. Yes it is easy to scan read the many names and move on to get through to more interesting bits. Well I do sometimes Lord. To get through the Bible in a Year we cannot linger here. But – I want o pause here Lord with the gatekeepers. Named, known and remembered.
It began in the wilderness camping by the tent openings of the moveable Tabernacle. And the responsibility of ensuring all was done properly.Then moved on to the Temple when it was originally built and duties extended to ensuring their we the necessary ingredients for worship. So when they came back to Jerusalem in Ezra, Haggai and Zechariah’s time they were again needed. The took up their duties. We do not read anywhere, as for as I know, that they left their post or did not fulfill their obligations. hey are worthy of being remembered.
And what about all those faithful servants who open up our churches, see to the heating, buy the milk and coffee. Prepare and check communion is prepared for. Father, named and known by You for eternity. We give thanks for all those down the years who have served thus. All those who do so now, some in difficult situations or amidst persecution. And we also turn a thought to those who will take over and ensure all still goes well in the future . . .
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Sunday 13th September 2026
“I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.” Psalm 84:10b NKJV Doorkeepers first in . . .
How lovely is Your dwelling place
Oh Lord Almighty
My soul longs and even faints for You
For here my heart is satisfied
Within’ Your presence
I sing beneath the shadow of Your wings
Better is one day in Your courts, Better is one day in Your house
Better is one day in Your courts, Than thousands elsewhere
Better is one day in Your courts, Better is one day in Your house
Better is one day in Your courts, Than thousands elsewhere
One thing I ask, and I would seek
To see Your beauty
To find You in the place Your glory dwells
Your glory dwells
Chorus
My heart and flesh cry out
For You, the Living God
Your Spirit’s water for my soul (My soul)
I’ve tasted and I’ve seen
Come once again to me
I will draw near to You
I will draw near to You
Chorus . . .
Lyrics: Matt Redman