| Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” | Then he said to them, “Go, eat the festival foods, drink the sweet drinks, and send portions to him who has nothing prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your refuge.” |
| But in your great mercy you did not put an end to them or abandon them, for you are a gracious and merciful God. | Nevertheless, in Your great compassion You did not make an end of them or abandon them, For You are a gracious and compassionate God. |
