“REVIVAL AND THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES”
(Nehemiah 7:1-8:18)
“This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep… And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength… Go out to the hills and bring branches of olive, wild olive, myrtle, palm, and other leafy trees to make booths… And all the assembly of those who had returned from the captivity made booths and lived in the booths… And there was very great rejoicing.” – Nehemiah 8:9b, 10b, 15b, 17a,c
For many years and the focus of God’s people after exile in Babylon was to rebuild the ruins of Jerusalem and the Tabernacle. Attention was given to the removal of rubble, laying foundations, brick and mortar. Now it was time to focus on rebuilding lives. To give attention to the Word of God. Ezra the scribe opened the scroll of Moses and read aloud from dawn until midday and a spiritual renewal took place.
“This day was to prove a turning point. From now on, the Jews would be predominantly ‘a people of the book.’” – Derek Kidner
The events that unfolded in this chapter still shapes true renewal today.
1. Understanding the Word
The people heard Ezra read the Law distinctly and explain it so they could grasp its meaning. God’s Word transforms only as it is understood and welcomed. When we open Scripture with prayerful attentiveness — whether in the pulpit, small group, or personal quiet time — we position ourselves for the same renewing work.
2. Rejoicing in the Word
Conviction came first. As they listened, the people wept over sin. But Nehemiah and Ezra quickly reminded them, “This day is holy… do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength” (v. 10). God’s Word wounds and heals. The Day of Atonement had just passed, forgiveness was fresh. Now joy must follow. True revival is never discouraging, it is ultimately marked by holy gladness.
3. Obeying the Word—Celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles
The next day the leaders gathered again and “found written” that Israel was to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles (or Booths) in the seventh month. Immediately they proclaimed it, gathered branches, and built shelters on rooftops, in courtyards, and public squares. What had long been neglected now would be met with joyful obedience.
The Feast of Tabernacles was rich with meaning:
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- Looking back – It recalled the wilderness years, when Israel dwelt in tents and God’s presence guided and sustained them.
- Looking around – Similar to our Thanksgiving Day, it celebrated the harvest, reminding them to thank the Giver.
- Looking ahead – Prophets like Zechariah (14:16) linked this feast to the coming Messianic kingdom when all nations will worship the Lord.
May our homes and churches echo the Feast of Tabernacles: remembering God’s past faithfulness, thanking Him for present provision, and anticipating the day when He will dwell with us forever.
Closing Prayer:
Holy Lord, As you gathered Your people to hear Your word, stir my heart again to be a person of the Book. Give me ears that understand what You speak and a will that is quick to obey. Thank you for the grace that moves us from weeping to rejoicing. Let revival come for the glory of Jesus Christ. Amen.
About our Author
John A Pra was born and raised in Queens, NY and has lived almost all of his life in the metropolitan area. After graduating from Bible college (now University of Valley Forge) he entered into full-time pastoral ministry. John and his wife, Diana, have been living in Carlstadt since 1990, pastoring Cornerstone Church and now at Transformation Life Church since 2022.
John and Diana have been married for 39 years and have three children and one granddaughter (who owns them). Besides loving time spent with family, he enjoys sports, reading, travel, and the golf course.
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