Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV): Nehemiah said, 'Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.‘
πThe Israelites had just returned from exile (a long, painful time of being away). They were rebuilding their lives, city, and faith. They asembled on the first day of the seventh month (a Holy Day-special holiday for reflection, rest, and renewal., NOT the Sabbath day), and Ezra the Priest read the Book of the Law (aka God’s Word) to the people for the first time in forever.
