Tyler led us through Nehemiah 8, where Israel gathers to hear the Scriptures read aloud after returning from exile. What looks at first like a simple moment of renewed devotion is actually part of a much larger story — a story of longing for God’s presence to return. Nehemiah isn’t ultimately about leadership strategies or personal self-rebuild. It is the story of a God who refuses to give up on dwelling with His people. Israel rebuilt the temple, rebuilt the walls, and returned home — but the presence of God did not yet return. Their hearts still needed to be made new. This chapter points forward to the moment when “the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us” (John 1:14) — Jesus Himself, the true presence of God dwelling with His people. And now, through the Holy Spirit, we are the temple — the dwelling place of God. The invitation for us today:“Holy Spirit, renew my heart. Make me a home for Your presence.” 📖 Scripture: Nehemiah 8; John 1:14; Jeremiah 31; Zechariah 2✨ Themes: The presence of God, new hearts, longing & fulfillment, the Spirit dwelling in us About Genesis Costa Mesa We are a Jesus-centered community shaped by the table, worship, prayer, story, and mission. Together we seek to bring the gospel to the nations, raise up leaders, and plant new Jesus-communities—living as the church both locally and globally. We hold fast to Scripture, the presence of the Spirit, and the call to join God’s work of renewal in the world. Learn more at: https://www.genesiscostamesa.com