PRAY:  God, connect with me here, as I seek you in your Word.

READ:  Nehemiah 8:9-10, 12

9The people started crying when God's Law was read to them. Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher, and the Levites who had been teaching the people all said, "This is a special day for the LORD your God. So don't be sad and don't cry!" 10Nehemiah told the people, "Enjoy your good food and wine and share some with those who didn't have anything to bring. Don't be sad! This is a special day for the LORD, and he will make you happy and strong."

…12When the people returned to their homes, they celebrated by eating and drinking and by sharing their food with those in need, because they had understood what had been read to them. Read More

When the light of God’s Word shines upon our hearts, we cannot help but weep at our own unworthiness when confronted with God’s grace and mercy. Sometimes our tears are tears of understanding…knowing that God has chosen to love us …and at other times, they are tears of disbelief…wondering why God loves us so much. It boggles our minds …it seems too good to be true.  But it is true. God loves us immensely. And, it is not because of anything we have done. We are only required to reach out and accept God’s unconditional love. It is here that we experience joy. An inexplicable bubbling of well-being…of wholeness…of intimacy with God who sits high on his throne in heaven, but who is still Abba…our Father…who stoops down to hold our hand. 

 God’s Word had now become a lamp to the feet of the people and a light for their path.  His grace had bypassed their shortcomings, and his mercy had blotted out their sins. It was a time when he had washed their eyes with tears so they could “see” and appreciate his Word even more.  It was this Word that would bring them strength when difficulty came into their lives; it was this Word that brought them joy; it was this Word that would make them know that nothing would be able to separate them from the love of God. 

REFLECT:

Why do you think Nehemiah tells the people not to be sad? Why was it important for them to share their food with others? What precept is at the heart of the Word of God? 

RESPOND:

Think of ways to share your resources with others. Purchase or prepare a meal for someone who is unemployed, ill, or is having a hard time making ends meet. Think of other ways to show love.

Lord, I rejoice at each opportunity to share your Word. Help me to be a beacon of light to those who still remain in darkness, unaware of the power of your Word.