So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day . . . in fifty and two days.
Fifty-two days’ work
Let us make a parable of the story and use the text as a motto of a deeper theme. Fifty-two Sundays and their work.
I. How quickly they pass.
II. What opportunities they furnish.
1. Of rest.
2. Of spiritual friendship.
3. Of Divine instruction.
4. Of moral renewal.
III. What results they leave.
1. In memory.
2. In life.
3. For judgment.
Application:
1. Thank God for the day of days.
2. Use each day as it comes.
3. Determine upon a rounded result for each cycle of fifty-two. (Homiletic Commentary.)
Finished work
1. The work of human redemption. Yes, the work was done. The atoning sacrifice was offered and accepted, as was demonstrated when Jesus rose again from the dead.
2. And is there ground for hope that the great and blessed work of renewal, begun in the believer’s heart, will be perfected?
3. The progress of the Church at large is also assured. (T. Rowson.)
Success
There was great exultation when Lesseps completed the Suez Canal, by which the communication between Europe and the East has been materially expedited. There was great exultation when the favourite project of Count Cavour for a tunnel through Mont Cents was brought to a successful termination, by which Paris and Turin have been approximated within a few hours of each other. There was greatexultation and loyal thankfulness when, in 1873, the Prince of Wales put the top stone to the Portland Breakwater. The foundation-stone of this work had been laid twenty-three years before, by his august father; and it was an interesting moment when the Prince completed the magnificent undertaking by adding to the words by which he formally announced the fact, “These are imperial works, and worthy kings”; and echoing shouts of joy went up, from two hundred thousand spectators. Similarly, it was a great day for Jerusalem when her walls and bulwarks were commended to the blessing of the Almighty. (J. M. Randall.)
