Go, eat rich foods and drink sweet drinks, and allot portions to those who had nothing prepared; for today is holy to our Lord. Do not be saddened this day, for rejoicing in the Lord is your strength! – Nehemiah 8:10
The Word of God is as important to our spiritual lives as water is to our physical lives. In our first reading, Ezra read from the book of the law of Moses: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. At this point, the Jewish people were just returning from and rebuilding after exile. The people had not read the scriptures for many years. They wept because they realized upon hearing the law that they had not been following it. They recognized their sinfulness and disobedience. But Ezra told them to rejoice because the Word was home again. They could know and understand how to love and serve the Lord once more. They could again be strengthened by their joy.
The Water Gate
Notice that the reading of the law wasn’t in the Temple, a place where only men could receive teaching. It was at the Water Gate, the entrance to Jerusalem. It was near the Gihon spring, the main water source for the city. The assembly of people included “men, women, and those children old enough to understand” (Nehemiah 8:2). The Word of God is meant for all people, not just the clergy, adults, or even just the men, as was often customary during ancient times. All people need to be refreshed by the purifying water of the Word.
In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus proclaimed Himself to be the fulfillment of Isaiah’s ancient prophecy at Nazareth. Just as the Word of God returned home to the people in our first reading, Jesus, the incarnate Word of God returned to His home synagogue. Jesus, the Word of God (John 1:1), the living water (John 4:10), are the same and for all people.
Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. – John 15:3
This week, consider going to your own “Water Gate,” a place where the Word, the living water, gushes forth. Perhaps it is a quiet corner of your home for prayer and Bible reading. It will bring you strength, refreshment, and joy. Allow yourself to be cleansed “by the washing of water with the word” (Ephesians 5:26).
Readings for January 23, 2022: Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
- Nehemiah 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10
- Psalm 19: 8-15
- 1 Corinthians 12:12-30
- Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21