OLD TESTAMENT: Esther 8-10
POETRY: Psalm 141
NEW TESTAMENT: John 14:15-31
Esther 9:22 – “as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies, and as the month when their sorrow was turned into joy and their mourning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days as days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor.”
How often do you remember and celebrate the mercies God has shown you?
In this last section of the book of Esther we read about the establishment of the celebration of Purim which commemorates when the Jews saw their fear and sorrow turn into relief and joy as the edict of annihilation was overturned.
All throughout the Old Testament, God calls His people to set aside specific days to remember and celebrate all that was done on their behalf. From Passover to Purim and Rosh Hashanah to Chanukah, these Jewish holidays are full of traditions that have been passed down through the generations.
As New Testament believers we take time to celebrate Christmas and Easter. He is our Messiah, and our salvation and hope are only available to us because of his perfect life, atoning death, and miraculous resurrection.
Additionally, many of us regularly partake in communion, once again recognizing the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and the promise of eternal life in the Kingdom of God.
But doesn’t God show us His grace and mercy daily? Shouldn’t we set aside time each day to pause, reflect, and give glory and honor for all that has been accomplished on our behalf? Like the Jews in the time of Esther, we too have been saved from the threat of annihilation from our enemies. We have been given the power of the Holy Spirit to do battle and conquer fear and so much more.
Every day we have reason to celebrate. Abundant living is ours today! God has given us so much. Let us never take it for granted.
-Bethany Ligon
Reflection Questions
- Why do you think God gave directions for days of celebration? What benefits do they have?
- What has God given you that He wants you to remember?
- What was to be included in the celebration of Purim? What ingredients can you include in your holy days and in your every day?
Seek Grow Love 