Context and Background:
Nehemiah, a significant figure in the Hebrew Bible, served as a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes of Persia during the 5th century BC. His account is primarily recorded in the Book of Nehemiah, which details his leadership in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls after the Babylonian exile. Nehemiah's reaction and mourning are pivotal moments that set the stage for his mission to restore Jerusalem.

Nehemiah's Reaction:
The narrative begins with Nehemiah receiving distressing news about the state of Jerusalem from his brother Hanani and other men from Judah. They report that "the remnant in the province, who had survived the exile, are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire" (Nehemiah 1:3). This report deeply affects Nehemiah, highlighting his profound connection to his ancestral homeland and his concern for the Jewish people.

Mourning and Prayer:
Upon hearing the news, Nehemiah's immediate response is one of deep mourning. The scripture records, "When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for days, fasting and praying before the God of heaven" (Nehemiah 1:4). This reaction underscores the gravity of the situation and Nehemiah's heartfelt empathy for his people. His mourning is not merely an emotional response but a spiritual one, as he turns to God in prayer and fasting.

Nehemiah's prayer is a model of confession, supplication, and intercession. He begins by acknowledging the greatness and faithfulness of God: "O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps His covenant of loving devotion with those who love Him and keep His commandments" (Nehemiah 1:5). Nehemiah confesses the sins of the Israelites, including his own and his family's, recognizing that their disobedience led to their current plight.

He then recalls God's promises, demonstrating his deep understanding of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Nehemiah petitions God to remember His word to Moses, that if the people return to Him and obey His commands, He will gather them from the farthest horizons and bring them to the place He has chosen as a dwelling for His Name (Nehemiah 1:8-9).

Significance:
Nehemiah's reaction and mourning are significant for several reasons. Firstly, they reveal his character as a man of deep faith and compassion. His immediate turn to prayer and fasting indicates his reliance on God and his belief in divine intervention. Secondly, his response sets the stage for his subsequent actions. Nehemiah's mourning leads to a period of preparation, both spiritually and practically, for the task of rebuilding Jerusalem's walls.

Furthermore, Nehemiah's prayer reflects a theologically rich understanding of God's nature and His covenant with Israel. It serves as a reminder of the importance of confession, repentance, and reliance on God's promises. Nehemiah's example encourages believers to respond to crises with prayerful dependence on God, seeking His guidance and intervention in times of trouble.