And Nehemiah…and Ezra the priest and scribe,… said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept when they heard the words of the law.” vs. 9
Nehemiah 8:8-10
When the words of the long-forgotten law were read to the Jews of Jerusalem their initial reaction was one of deep sadness—and they began to weep. We can only guess that their sadness came with the recognition of how far they had strayed from the word of the Lord. If, as many believe, Ezra had read from what we know as the book of Deuteronomy, we can understand their dismay. Deuteronomy did more than recount their history, it laid out the rituals and practices that defined how the people of God should live with one another, and in relationship to their neighbors. It’s one of the most remarkable documents ever produced in ancient times. And people had completely forgotten its precepts and values. No wonder they wept! It’s easy to lose touch with those ideas and practices that define us as communities of faith, and it’s not at all uncommon for believers to forget what they have been taught. But Nehemiah told the people of Jerusalem not to cry about it. They should treat this day as a new beginning and a fresh start, and start being the generous caring people God had made them to be. So too with us! Recognition of our sin isn’t only about sadness, it’s also a time to rejoice and be born again.
Thought for the Day: When have I made a fresh start in life?
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