THE STORY OF JESUS: Esther 9:16-22
“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.” (Esther 9:22)
Notice the connection between celebrating God’s grace and sharing it with others.
In Moses’ Law, the Jews were often told to remember the poor and needy, even foreigners.
The reason given was: “remember that you were slaves in Egypt” (Deuteronomy 16:11-12).
We are recipients of God’s goodness, we ought therefore to share that goodness with others.
Or as Jesus said it so simply, “Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:8)
In a similar way, we are to extend forgiveness to others, as we have been forgiven.
Our generous, gracious God wants to multiply His blessing through us.
This is how He spreads His kingdom, through His graced children.
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:1-2)
So what is the Spirit of Jesus saying to me through this?
I sense Him reminding me of the wonder of God’s grace, and the need for me to share it.
To look around at others in trouble, in crisis, in need, and to see them as God sees them.
Don’t just celebrate Christmas for myself, share its joy with others.
Don’t just celebrate Easter with my family, share its hope with others.
The celebration of God’s grace should not be confined to a few days each year.
Give presents of food, give gifts to the poor, make every day a celebration of grace!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, help me to see how easy it is to do this. There are always opportunities to bless someone. You’ve given me plenty of reasons to do it!