In Nehemiah 12 we find God's people planning a celebration together ofwhat God has accomplished. They are also creating a strategic community of worship on purpose. Intentionality in thanking and praising God included consecration that would set them up well for celebration. The extravagant, joyful, all-inclusive worship event was exciting - and took a lot of coordination - but this would be more than a one-time event. They were setting up a pattern of worship that could continue. While the event amplified their sound across the region, the stewardship they were planning would help shift the culture, not just make a lot of noise.  The joy they found would become fuel for their stewardship, and our gratefulness in the gospel will fuel a culture of worship and stewardship in our day as well.