Nehemiah 8:9-12

9Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people told them, “This is a holy day for the Lord your God. Don’t mourn or cry.” All the people were crying as they listened to the reading of God’s Teachings.

10Then he told them, “Go, eat rich foods, drink sweet drinks, and send portions to those who cannot provide for themselves. Today is a holy day for the Lord. Don’t be sad because the joy you have in the Lord is your strength.”

11So the Levites calmed all the people by saying, “Listen. Today is a holy day. Don’t be sad.”

12Then all the people went to eat and drink and to send portions. They had a big, joyful celebration because they understood the words that had been explained to them.