The walls of Jerusalem have been rebuilt, yet lives are still in shambles. The people of Israel had forgotten their heritage, their native language, and more importantly, God. They are assembled in Jerusalem and ask to hear the Law of Moses (the first five books of the Old Testament). As Ezra taught, God began to work mightily amongst them. The people bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. Many wept because they realized how disobedient they had been.
Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”
They then celebrated the Feast of Tabernacles. It was a time of remembrance, “We’re sinners, but God is faithful. He was faithful to our forefathers, he’s faithful to us now, and he’ll continue to be faithful in the future.”
After today’s reading, I’m again struck by the power of God’s word. As the people diligently studied, they found that which was forgotten. Their lives were transformed and it caused them to rejoice in God and his goodness. God’s word can have that same transforming power in our lives. All we need to do is open the book.
-Gina G.
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