With the wall completed in 52 days, it was time to celebrate and give thanks to God for His help. All the people assembled as "one man" in Jerusalem and called for the reading of the Torah. Their unity and hunger for God's Word is an example to the people of God and a magnet for the presence of God. In great reverence for the Law of Moses, the people stood for six hours as it was being read by Ezra, the priest. They also wept at the same time, but were told not to mourn or weep. "This day is sacred to the Lord your God," they wee told by Nehemiah. He urged them to go home and celebrate with choice food and sweet drinks and share with those in need. "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." With great joy, the people went to their homes, because they understood the words that had been read to them.