Principles and Values
«Then Queen Esther, the daughter of Abihail, with Mordecai the Jew, wrote with full authority to confirm this second letter about Purim. And Mordecai sent letters to all the Jews to the one hundred and twenty-seven provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, with words of peace and truth (Esther 9:29,30).
The Purim Festival (plural of Pur which means «lot») bears this name because Haman cast lots to decide the day on which the Jews were to be killed (Esther 3:7). It is still celebrated today by the Jews and is one of the most joyful times for this community. They celebrate the vindication of the Jewish people as it is written in the Book of Esther. Purim takes place annually on the 14th day of Adar, usually in March, exactly one month before Easter. On that day, families and congregations read the Book of Esther and enjoy the miraculous events of the period described there. During the recitation, they use noisemakers or simply stomp their feet on the ground every time Haman’s name is mentioned, as if to erase him om history. also enjoy traditional food for the occasion or some triangular biscuits filled with jam chat are only eaten during this holiday. They also donate food to charities for people in need, as urged in Esther 9:22. In some places, the custom is to wear costumes to add a festive atmosphere to Purim’s joy.
Today’s verse shows us the contrast between Esther and Mordecai before and after the climax of the story. Mordecai was a deportee from Jerusalem who adopted and raised his little cousin Hadassah (Esther) in the city of Shushan, where the lived. They were humble people who lived an extraordinary experience because of a series of events. At the end of the story, they ended up being the two most influential people in the kingdom (Esther 2:8; 9:4, 20, 29; 10:2, 3).
We also notice the phenomenon of resilience here. After much suffering and uncertainty, Esther and Mordecai, despite their humble condition and their Jewish origin, were found at the summit of the powerful Persian Empire. Above all, they were used as instruments to save a multitude of Jews.
When we remain by the Lord’s side, even if we pass through painful and difficult situations, He will provide a way out for us, just like He did for Esther and Mordecai. Let us ask for His protection today, so that with every step we take, His power can save us and be manifested.
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Taken from: Daily Devotions for Adults 2020
“A Cheerful Heart Is Good Medicine”
From: Julian Melgoza-Laura Fidanza
Colaboradores:Ricardo Vela & AlejandraZavala
