By Wendy Bridgeman, Local Preacher, Clitheroe Circuit
Reading: Nehemiah 8 v 10
‘This day is holy to the Lord…..now go home and have a feast. Share your food and wine with those who haven’t enough……don’t be sad….the JOY the Lord gives will make you strong.’ (GNT)
Notes:
I want you to see a picture of a people, crowds of people, who have returned from a long time in exile. They have rebuilt their towns, they have rebuilt Jerusalem. Now 7 months later, a large crowd has gathered in Jerusalem to hear the word of the law.
Ezra stood up to read the word of the law and they were so moved that they began to cry. Then the Levites went among them explaining the law and told them not to be sad but enjoy this Holy Day.
I WONDER ..What did they feel about returning to a New Life in and around Jerusalem ? I WONDER What made them sad enough to cry?
Perhaps they were ecstatic and full of JOY returning home, a new life! But then perhaps when they heard the Law being read they felt it was too hard to follow and cried. Or perhaps having a law made them realise that they did indeed have a God who cared for them. Then they were full of joy.
Finally ,an important note….share your food with those who haven’t enough. JOY and SHARING, two important parts of the Advent season.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, in your great love you brought the Israelites home from exile and gave them your Law again. As we come today remind us of all you have done for us. Fill us with your JOY and strength so that we joyfully share of your goodness to those in need. And to pray constantly and thankfully for those in need in so many places around the world. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. AMEN