Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10 (ESV)

Imagine the scene: it’s early morning. The Israelites have gathered to listen to Ezra read to them the word of God.

This is a big deal. Their 70 years in exile have ended. Jeremiah has rebuilt the wall around Jerusalem.

And the people are, at last, coming home. Back to their city. Back to their God.

Ezra read until lunch time. And the people listened. Nobody was concerned about missing the big game. No one had to get home because they had a roast in the oven. Not one soul had their phone out, checking social media.

They were attentive.

They were listening.

And they were convicted. They were feeling the pain and shame of their falling away.

But notice the message given to the people: you are with God again.

It’s very easy to get caught up in the remorse and sorrow of our sinful deeds. And remorse is a very appropriate response to our moral failures. But understand this: when you accept and choose to trust God, you are forgiven.

You are cleansed.

Your record is expunged.

Your sin is removed as far as the east is from the west.

If you are feeling like you need forgiveness, run – do not walk- to your Heavenly Father, confess your sins, seek His forgiveness and recognize how much God loves you.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9 ( ESV)

That’s good news! Especially considering none of us righteous of our own accord.

Realize the love God has for you. Recognize the forgiveness He offers you. Rejoice in the Lord always and seek Him first at all times!

Sleep well dear friends. You are loved more than you can imagine.