It was the fulfillment of the prophesied return from captivity. Those returning to Zion couldn't contain themselves. As the priest Ezra read from the book of the Law, the Israelites listened attentively and were moved to tears. They had lost everything to Nebuchadnezzar, but now, with the permission of the Persian kings, they were rebuilding Jerusalem. Ezra read the Law from dawn until noon, and the governor Nehemiah gave instructions to the people.

           Nehemiah and Ezra, as well as the Levites, told the people not to weep, because it was a day of rejoicing. We also have to enjoy the moment humanity experienced of accepting the work done by Jesus on behalf of all, taking away the sins, sicknesses and punishment that peace required to remain in us. Now the night has passed and the day has come, and there is nothing for us to suffer. Rather, we must believe that Christ has paid the price for our redemption.

           When they heard the Law, the people wept, but they were forbidden to do so because there was no longer any reason to do so. When Jesus ascended to be at the right hand of the Father, He took captivity captive (Ephesians 4:8). That's why we need to rejoice, eating the fat: enjoying the anointing poured out by God on those who believe in His Word. It's time for us to experience the joy of the Lord, using our authority over the works of the devil and setting the captives free.

           Paul, a champion of faith in Christ, expressed himself in the following way, speaking of the Gospel, convinced that he had nothing to be ashamed of: For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek (Romans 1.16). We have the power of God to preach salvation, healing, deliverance and eternal life with the Lord in heaven. Drink of this sweetness!

           Because God puts so much power in our hands, we can do as David did: remember those who helped us at one time and send them portions. The lost are the cause of our call; after all, the Lord has commissioned us to preach the Truth to them: And he said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). We have to send them such portions - the varied blessings. Will we do it?

           With the coming of the Savior, a period consecrated to God began, and the chosen ones went everywhere preaching the Gospel. Today, we consecrate the second day to Him, a period in which Jesus sends us out to accomplish His deeds. On the third day, he will rapture the Church and the work will be finished: And He said to them, “Go, tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out devils, and perform cures today and tomorrow; and the third day I shall be perfected  (Luke 13.32). Do your part!

           Why grieve if the Bridegroom is with us? The command was: Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Your strength will be the size of the holy joy in your life. The world needs this strength. Believe it and live with it!

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares