April 15, 2022 - Esther 1-2

Chapter 10 gives the names of the people who sealed the covenant made under Ezra’s ministry. And all the people made “an oath to walk in God’s Law that was given by Moses the servant of God, and to observe and do all the commandments of the Lord” (10:29). They specifically mentioned the matters of marriage, the Sabbath, tithes and offerings, and the care of the house of God. Chapters 11 and 12 pretty much provide additional detail concerning the placement of the people in Jerusalem and the surrounding towns and a listing of the Levites.

The closing of the book tells of a celebration “with gladness, with thanksgivings and with singing, with cymbals, harps, and lyres” (12:27). On the wall, “two great choirs that gave thanks” (12:31). “And they offered great sacrifices that day and rejoiced, for God had made them rejoice with great joy; the women and children also rejoiced. And the joy of Jerusalem was heard far away” (12:43). What a day!

The Lord has provided, and he has blessed. The people have worked hard, and they have victory over their enemies. The project of the wall is completed. Rightly do they rejoice and give thanks. And should we for the great favor and blessings we have received from our God.

Rejoice today with one accord,

sing out with exultation;

rejoice and praise our mighty Lord,

whose arm hath brought salvation.

His works of love proclaim

the greatness of his name;

for he is God alone,

who hath his mercy shown:

let all his saints adore him! -- H. W. Baker (19th century)