Please read the passage before the homily:
Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king Artaxerxes. His primary function was to ensure that the wine had no poisoning in it. He would certify the integrity of the wine served the king, often by taking sip of the wine he would present to the king. This would put him in close relationship to the king and would often serve as a royal advisor.
Nehemiah was cupbearer. He had frequent, even daily, contact with the king soi much so that Artaxerxes noticed a change in Nehemiah’s attitude. Waa Nehemiah sick? No, he was saddened by the lack of progress in the restoration of Jerusalem, the ancient capital city of his ancestors. He wanted to go and supervise the rebuilding of Jerusalem. He asked permission and received permission.
Nehemiah, the author notes, had the hand of God with him. How often do we reflect that the hand of God is upon us, enabling us to do thin for God. God does not make us to do nothing. God has a planned work for each of us. Whether we are cupbearers, or cup washers, or people with other relationships with cups, God has put us on earth for some specific reason. Our happiness and our fulfilment come from accomplishing this plan.