Purim

So the king and Haman went to Queen Esther’s banquet and as they were drinking wine on the second day, the king again asked, “What is your petition? What is your request? Esther answered, “Grant me my life – this is my petition and spare my people – this is my request.”

King Xerxes asked Queen Esther, “Who is he? Where is he – the man who dares to do such a thing?” Esther said, “An adversary and enemy! This vile Haman!”

Haman’s hatred and evil plotting turned against him when the king discovered his true intentions. He was impaled that very day on the same pole he had set up for someone else.

Even though Haman was now dead, the decree he had set in place was still part of the law of the Medes and Persians and could not be reversed. But the king promoted Mordecai and gave him permission to write a new decree that could offset the first.

The king’s new decree granted the Jews in every city the right to assemble and protect themselves and on the set date the decree was carried out. The Jews assembled and no one could stand against them.

Mordecai recorded all these events and set a date to celebrate, which is still celebrated today. It is called Purim which means “lots,” because Haman had cast lots to determine what date he would carry out his evil plan.

Today, February 25th the Jews are celebrating Purim by feasting and giving presents to each other and gifts to the poor. During the celebration the story of Esther is retold often wearing costumes of the characters and shouting loudly whenever Haman’s name is mentioned.

People tend to have short memories when it comes to God’s faithfulness. Celebrations of feasting, gladness and gift giving are important ways to remember God’s specific acts. Today the festivities of Christmas and Easter help us remember the birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Be Intentional about remembering and celebrating God’s goodness.

Praises & Prayers

Father, thank you for Your faithfulness in saving us and making a way for all that You have promised to be fulfilled. Help us never to forget the real purpose of our celebrations. Your are the reason Lord. Thank you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Messages from His Word

Psalm 95:1-2

Oh come, let us sing to the Lord;
    let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
 Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;
    let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!