Read It and Weep

They read from the book, from the law of God, translating to give the sense so that they understood the reading. Then Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, "This day is holy to the LORD your God; do not mourn or weep." For all the people were weeping when they heard the words of the law. Then he said to them, "Go, eat of the fat, drink of the sweet, and send portions to him who has nothing prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." Nehemiah 8:8-10

 

Have you ever wept when you’ve read scripture? The Israelites here had just returned from captivity in Babylon and they were learning about their God and His laws. This is a beautiful passage. This is a holy day—today is a holy day. Don’t be grieved. Don’t worry—be happy. The joy of the Lord is your strength. He will fill you with joy and strength—you may just need to ask. And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive. Matthew 21:22

 

I love this passage. The Israelites had been in captivity for 70 years, so some of them didn’t even remember or know the Lord. They came back to Israel—to Jerusalem and were involved in rebuilding the wall around the city. Imagine how they felt to be back in their own land—reunited with their God and hearing about celebrating this holy day—this holy week of the Feast of Booths. Celebrations are always fun. Reading the Torah, eating food together with family and friends—there may have been dancing and singing. A real celebration! Not a time for tears. God had truly blessed them. He blesses us now with His love, grace and with the gift of His Son. Have you considered His gift—what Jesus has done for you?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help each of us to rejoice in God’s love and care. Open our eyes to see the miracles, grace and love of God flowing through us—ministering to us and to those around us. Today is a day to be joyful and celebrate.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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