Today is the festival of Purim. It is so named because Haman, the bad guy, picked this date to be the day of the massacre of the Jews by rolling dice, which were called pur. You can read about the entire event in the book of Esther in the Bible.

It is customary to celebrate today and rejoice in the saving power of G*d. It is customary to send gifts to others, espically the needy, and to celebrate with a feast (or at least a nice and special dinner). When the book of Esther is read aloud to the family, when the name of Haman is read the listeners are to boo and hiss in order to drown out his name. When Mordecai's name is read, it is customary to cheer to give honor to this wise and devoted man. Children can dress up in costume and act out the story as if it were a play as well, and have noise makers to use throughout as well. It is a time of fun and celebration, and most of all - teaching the children. Who doesn't love to have fun while learning? :~)

I'll include some links to some sites if anyone is interested in participating in any Purim activities today or to save for another time. Today and tomorrow are days to celebrate Purim, but honestly, these things can be celebrated anytime. When is it a bad day to celebrate His deliverance?

Purim, A Christian View at BiblicalHolidays.com, Purim activities and studies from Torah Family Magazine. A Virtual Purim (not from a Christian perspective).

These two links are for the tombs of Esther and Mordecai: Tomb Link 1 Tomb Link 2

Persian Kings in the Bible and links to more information on Persia in the Bible.

In our family, we are finishing up our study on Iran and Persia. We're excited to celebrate today and reflect on what would happen in our day if (and when) it is the Believers turn to be persecuted like the Jews in Esther's day. What would happen in our world today if there was a death sentence for all Believers simply because they are Believers. What would we do? How many would falter? How many would remain true and pure? I heard a quote yesterday on TV, the first time I've ever seen Zola Levitt's show, and he said that a missionary from the Sinai Desert said something along these lines (I'm sure I'll misquote both of them, so keep in mind this is the just of the statement and not word-for-word what was said), "It is natural for the church to be persecuted. Persecution is what keeps the church strong and on the right path. The church of the west (the American church) has grown flabby and weak."

Posted by underhiswings

Happy Purim!