Nehemiah 8-10 Scripture Read 

Today we enter the sanctuary and the reader of the scripture, or the one chosen to impart the Word for that day are, for the most part, clearly understood. However, place yourself in a foreign culture and you will soon find yourself lost as to the meaning and understanding. Those Ezra addressed were like the latter since they had lived many years in Babylon and knew that language but not the Aramaic of the land. Ezra could have just read and hoped for understanding but instead he had men who were bilingual stationed by groups of people to help them understand. These could listen to Ezra and then translate what he said to the people. Reading and listening are two different skills. Today we have several translations of the Bible and in that way no matter your language, you are able to understand the written word. We also have bilingual vocal translators to add to our understanding. 

Today let’s stop and thank God for these wonderful opportunities to hear and read. God has gifted men and women who have the gift of translation. Men, women and children now have access to these gifts and the gospel is being proclaimed around the world through them.