The Israelites hear God's law read out loud and start to cry.
A population confronts how far they’ve strayed. They weep, but God tells them to celebrate.
In Nehemiah 8:8–12, the people of Israel return to Jerusalem after exile. Ezra reads from the Old Testament. The priests are there to explain it so everyone can understand.
Imagine being confronted with hundreds of ways you’ve sinned against God. The Israelites understand. They weep, knowing The Lord has punished Israel for disobedience in the past.
Nehemiah could have said "Good. Keep crying. Repent harder."
Instead, Nehemiah says, “Let’s party instead.”
“Go and eat what is rich, drink what is sweet, and send out portions to those who have nothing prepared, since today is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”
The tears weren't wrong. But tears aren’t the end of the day.
Nehemiah shows the full story of The Lord: our inadequacy, and the table The Lord prepares before us anyway.
And then look at that second instruction. Send portions to those who have nothing prepared. The feast had to include people who couldn't throw one themselves.
They finally understood. And rejoiced.
It's Sunday. Maybe you'll hear something in church today that stings. Good.
Then go feast with family and believers, and prepare a table for others who don’t have enough.
Who in your life has nothing prepared today, and what could you provide them?