The story
The wall was finished, and all the people gathered in the big square in Jerusalem. Moms, dads, grandmas and children stood close together. Everyone wanted to hear God’s Word.
Ezra the teacher climbed up onto a tall wooden stage. When he opened the scroll, everyone stood up. “Praise the Lord!” they said, lifting their hands.
Ezra read God’s words from early morning until noon. Helpers explained what it meant, so everyone could understand. The people listened carefully.
When the people heard God’s words, they cried. They were sorry they had forgotten him. But Nehemiah and Ezra said, “Don’t cry! Today is a happy day!”
“Go and eat good food,” they said. “Share with people who have none. The joy of the Lord is your strength!” So everyone shared and smiled.
Then they built little shelters out of leafy branches on the rooftops and camped in them to remember God’s care. God’s Word fills our hearts with joy!
