Daily devotional · July 15
The Joy of the Lord
“Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to all of them, “This day is holy to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people were weeping as they heard the words of the Law. Then Nehemiah told them, “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.” And the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still, since today is holy. Do not grieve.” Then all the people began to eat and drink, to send out portions, and to rejoice greatly, because they understood the words that had been made known to them.”
The people of Jerusalem heard the law read aloud after years of exile, and they began to weep. It was a natural response: they saw how far they had drifted. Yet Nehemiah and Ezra told them not to grieve, because it was a holy day. They were to eat good food, share it with those who had nothing, and remember that the joy of the Lord is their strength. Repentance and celebration were meant to live together. God's word does not only expose us; it restores us. The people then went away to celebrate, because they understood what had been explained to them. Today, prepare something small to celebrate: a meal, a phone call, a favorite song. Include someone who might otherwise be left out. Let gladness in God become something you practice with your hands, not just something you feel.
Prayer
Lord, let your word both humble me and lift me. Fill me with joy that I can share.