Celebrating Purim

I apologize for not updating the blog in the last couple of days.  My grandmother has been in the hospital since early Sunday morning.  She has pneumonia, among other things.  Prayers for her health are greatly appreciated.  

On to the remaining chapters of Esther.  Today I'm going to blog about Esther 8-10.  This will conclude the study of the book of Esther.  Have you noticed that God is never mentioned in the book of Esther.  But, if you will notice, he is working all throughout.  

Esther has asked the king to reverse the edict that the Jews be killed.  Special privilege was given to the Jews that they be able to defend themselves as a nation.  The remainder of the book of Esther is about the celebration of Purim.

"In the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar, on its thirteenth day ... on the day that the enemies of the Jews were expected to prevail over them, it was turned about: the Jews prevailed over their adversaries." - Esther 9:1

"And they gained relief on the fourteenth, making it a day of feasting and gladness." - Esther 9:17

"Mordecai instructed them to observe them as days of feasting and gladness, and sending delicacies to one another, and gifts to the poor." - Esther 9:22

Purim is one of the most celebrated holidays on the Jewish calendar.  It is celebrated on the 14th day of Adar, which is usually around March 31.  This is the day after the day that Haman chose to destroy the Jews.  This was a celebration of survival.  The word Purim means "lots" or "lottery".  Haman drew "lots" to determine the day that the Jews would be destroyed.  During Purim, the Jews exchange gifts of food and drink, donate to charity, eat a celebratory meal, partake in the reading of the book of Esther, and also engage in a carnival-like festivals.  

To me this is a celebration of deliverance.  God delivered them from the evil of Haman and near extinction.  As a Christian, we don't have to do any of these things in celebration of Purim.  But, we should be grateful for God sending his son, Jesus Christ, to deliver us.  He has delivered us from the fate of Hell.  Isn't that enough to celebrate?

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your son, Jesus, to die on the cross for my sins.  Thank you for this bible study and all that I have been able to learn.  Forgive me when I don't celebrate my salvation.  It is something to celebrate and to share with others.  Give me the wisdom to speak of your precious gift to us.  In Jesus name, Amen.