The people congregated to hear Ezra read the Law (Ne 8:1, 2; w13-E 10/15 21 ¶2; see cover picture)

This was to be a joyous time in the worship of Jehovah, not a time to mourn over past sins (Ne 8:9, 11, 12)

The joy of Jehovah is a stronghold for his servants (Ne 8:10; w07-E 7/15 22 ¶9-10)

ASK YOURSELF, ‘Despite challenges, what specific reasons do I have for joy?’