Here at the conclusion of the Book of Esther, we see the Lord transforming gloom to gladness -- just as He continually does throughout history. The Jews successfully turned the tables on their enemies and overcame them. Haman's sons were executed, and thousands upon thousands of those who wished to destroy God's people were destroyed themselves. Afterwards, there was a time of rest and a proclamation of a celebration, which became known as Purim. The reason for the gladness was that God had delivered His people -- He had not forgotten them!
Just as the Jews of old celebrated the defeat of their enemies, we Christians should know how to celebrate as well. Like Mordecai and Esther's countrymen, we were doomed to a certain death sentence because of our sinful nature. But now our gloom and sadness and sorrow has been taken away, because Jesus Christ has defeated death and lives again! We should be celebrating His glorious Resurrection -- every Sunday! Let's pray for grace so that our focus may be upon Him and His accomplished work, and not on the circumstances around us; for we know that our God has not forgotten us, and He is working all things for our good! |
