Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Today, we’re diving into a fantastic story from the Book of Nehemiah! Picture this: The people of Israel have just returned from exile. They’re back in their city, and guess what? They’re ready to rebuild—not just walls, but their relationship with God!  

“They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.” Nehemiah 8:8 

Can you imagine a huge crowd gathered in the square, eager to hear God’s Word? Ezra the Scribe stands up and reads aloud, and the people listen intently! 

As we explore Nehemiah 8 together, let’s remember that God’s Word is not just something to read; it’s something to celebrate! 

Thinking about this scene, I get an image in my head. As a lot of people know, I'm a big college football fan who just so happened to marry into a big Alabama Crimson Tide family. So, I picture 100,00 fans in the stadium - all eager and waiting for the game to start.  Could you imagine what it would look like for 100,000 people eagerly awaiting to hear the Word of God? Not only hearing the Word but rejoicing and celebrating what Christ did on the cross for you and me? That sounds like heaven on earth to me.  

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Does joy and gratitude come easy to you or is it something that you have to intentionally practice?
• This week, make a “Joy List.” Each day, write down one thing that brings you joy or a way you saw God working in your life. This will help us remember to find joy in God’s goodness. 
• Prayer: Lord, thank You for the joy that comes from Your Word. Help us to seek You together and celebrate all the amazing things You do in our lives. May our hearts be full of joy as we share Your love with others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.