On Sunday morning, we gather together as Jesus’ Church. We sing, we pray, there are some announcements, maybe a personal testimony... Then, the pastor comes onto the platform; he opens the Bible and begins to speak. At that moment, what are we expecting? What is this all about? What does the pastor think he is doing? For that matter, what are we doing as a church in that moment?

Nehemiah Chapter 8 tells some important things about God’s people gathering to hear God’s word. It tells us what I, as your pastor, should be trying to do. It also tells us some things that each of us can do in order to best receive and respond to God’s word.