Then Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people were weeping when they heard the words of the law. (Nehemiah 8:9)
While the reading of God’s word hit a raw nerve with the people, there was no cause to weep and mourn, but there was a case to be made for rejoicing and celebration, and Nehemiah made it. Nevertheless, might that our reaction to the word be so impactful that we weep!
For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and espirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)
But the truth is, scripture acted on turns back sin before it really makes us want to cry. Granted, it can also point to past missteps and missed opportunities that are regrettable. It is, as we know, a two-edged sword. On this particular day, with revival in the offing, there seemed to be clear sailing ahead for people in Jerusalem and Judah. The shackles had fallen off.
For us, there is freedom in the name of Jesus, not so much in a song heard, but in the pages of his word.
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