God's Unmerited Favor...Gleanings from Esther 8:1-8

It seems there are different passages within the Scriptures when someone follows after evil, especially in regards to hurting another, God will turn "the story" around and good triumphs.
 Here in Esther, two things have been made quite clear:
1. Haman had enacted an Edict that had a promise of wealth to those who obeyed it. In this scenario, Haman had proclaimed the wealth of all the Jewish people within the empire of Persia would be given to everyone who participated destroying every person of Jewish origin.
 In the end, Haman's property was given to Queen Esther (A Jewish person) by the command of King Xerxes.
2. Queen Esther then gave Mordecai total control to manage the estate of Haman....the man Haman hated most of all.
 There is a justice...there is a favor...there is mercy...all attributes of the Great God we serve...and His ways have not changed...not in 450 B.C., and not in 2012 A.D....

                                                 Gleanings from Esther 8:1-8

 " On the same day Haman, who had sought to destroy all Jewish people...was executed himself instead. King Xerxes gave all the property of Haman to his Jewish Queen, Esther.
 Then, Mordecai, a Jewish cousin of Queen Esther, was brought into the presence of the king. Esther had already related to King Xerxes the story of both her and Mordecai, how they were related, and how Mordecai had cared for her.
 The King then called Mordecai into his presence, and in front of the Royal Court, removed his own signet ring from his hand, the very same ring he had given Haman and then had stripped it off of him earlier that day as Haman neared his own death.
 He then gave the signet ring to Mordecai, and all the authority that accompanies the powerful ring.
 Meanwhile, Queen Esther assigned Mordecai all of Haman's property, to be run and manage as he saw fit.

 Yet, with all this turn of events, Queen Esther went again...into the presence of the King. She fell before his feet, and with much feeling to the point of tears, requested of King Xerxes to entirely revoke the Edict Haman had communicated(through written Law) the order to exterminate all Jewish people.
 King Xerxes, once more lifted his golden scepter to Esther, and she arose and stood before the king. Esther then spoke to the king and said: "If it pleases you my King, and you continue to regard me with your favor and your wise counsel to know what is right, along with our love for one another, I ask this. Let there be a new decree...one which reverses the order dictated by Haman, the son of Hammedatha, the Agagite. For the decree which currently is in force declares all members of Jewish origin are to be executed on March 7th of this upcoming year.
 For how could I, my great king, idly sit by and endure my very own life while the history of my own origin and members of my own family are slaughtered. And myself, dear king, am I not of Jewish origin...and I too will be slaughtered with my people?

 Then, King Xerxes spoke to both Queen Esther and to Mordecai, replying to Queen Esther's request: " I have given my Queen the property of Haman, while he has faced his own death for all the treacherous things he has done. Haman was impaled on the very pole he had devised for you, my dear Mordecai!
 Now, here is where it can become a "little tricky". First, you can certainly construct an Edict to all your people and throughout the Empire..and with my signet ring at your disposal, all peoples in each of the provinces will obey whatever this new Edict may command.
 But, there is a condition as in all Edicts sent out in my name and sealed with my signet ring...it is irrevokable. An Edict with my name on it...can never be cancelled."....to be continued.... 

A Passing Thought...Gleanings from John 16:31-33

Sometimes my witness for Christ in everyday life is not when I think I need to tell someone about Jesus (and there is certainly nothing wrong with that...please...that is cool too!), but for me, it is showing Christ in my life when I am...frustrated...on the verge of "losin' it" for a moment, or perhaps really wanting to go off on somebody.
 It is in those times I find my personal witness to others very effective. I have noticed since becoming a Christian, people are watching you...all the time. Maybe they were before and I did not realize, but now, since I gave my life to the Lord Jesus...it is like so real to me! 
 A baffling thought to me is when someone approaches death (not trying to be morbid here, just comes into by brain...), what friend, what compassion, or what can a person do at that particular moment in time. I mean, I honestly do not know what I would do...not having Christ Jesus in my own heart at that moment. It would be so horrific to face death...alone.
 So, my concluding thought on this is when those moments come in my daily life, when I don't want to give God praise, or I just want to slander someone because of their rude behavior...it is in those very moments that if I can find His Peace, even if I just give Him a moment in that corridor of time, His Power is made known....anyway, a Gleaning from John 16:31-33:

 " Do you believe....Are you finally getting a hold of what I have been saying to You? Here is what you need to be aware of...the times in your own life are already here...you are being scattered throughout the world...in various places and in the corridors of time.
 I know there are times you will feel lost and alone, for I have been left alone. Yet, here is something I know, I always carry with Me, in My heart. The truth is, I am not alone, for the Father is with Me.
 The reason I say all this even now is to reinforce this thought in your own hearts and minds, that you as well are not all alone...I am with you. When you are able to grasp this more and more as your life grows in Me...then you will find it! You will have recognized My Peace in you...each of you that learns to put their trust in Me.
 When you put into practice keeping Me in your thoughts, even during those times when life just frustrates you, when people get on your "nerves", when things said just anger you...when you can begin to find Me in the midst of those times, then you will be less able to just "storm off in anger", say something you wish you would not have said, or hurt someone with your attitude or even your body language which speaks loud and clear to some one that you are just "blowing them off", not having any concern for them at the moment.
 It is in those times, that if You allow My Peace to overtake what your thoughts and emotions want to, your confidence will build within you...because you actually are witnessing for yourself My power operating in your life. Then, you will understand more when I say, you are not alone...I am there with you.
 Here on earth as you journey through your life, you will face difficulties, some may appear large, while others will seem small. Others of you will face some severe trials, facing numerous types of distress and frustrations...and sorrow.
 But no matter what life may bring you, the source of your life....is Me! It may be in those momentary times, when things in your daily routine are not going your way, and people are all around you...or it may be when you are about to face death itself...it doesn't really matter.
 What does matter is you have learned how to take courage during those times, that you have developed a confidence, and now can take heart!....for you have learned all this comes from knowing Me.
 The real truth is this: I have already conquered the way the world is, including situations in your own daily routines in life, and regardless of what circumstances you might be facing...the one fact remains....trusting in Me.
 Listen up! I have conquered all that...for you! In fact, I have totally deprived it of its power to harm and overtake you...period!"

Timing is Everything...Gleanings from Esther 6

We often hear or read of how it seems so apparent evil is about to triumph over good, then God steps in! When we continue to trust Him, and do not let our eyes dictate the belief in our own hearts, and not allow fear to have its course in our lives....things can change...and do so quickly.
 We really can't make it happen, just continue to trust and allow God's timing to dictate our future...Gleanings from Esther 6.

.. " On the same night Queen Esther had invited the king and Haman to a banquet the next day, king Xerxes could not sleep. So, since he was already up, ordered for the Book of Chronicles...of the Great Persian History. In this book were all the memorable deeds, the history of Xerxes reign, and a general yet detailed history of the chronological events relating to the great Persian Empire.
 While he was being read these chronicles, king Xerxes discovered a historical account on how Mordecai had exposed the plot of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the eunuchs who had guarded the door to the king's private chambers. (Note: Really? He doesn't remember 2 guys who were out to kill him....back off some of that homemade wine my dear king (lol). Mordecai exposed their plan to assasinate king Xerxes.
 Then, the king had his servant stop reading and asked, " What did we ever do for Mordecai?...what reward did he receive for all this?" (Note: The Book of the Persian Empire Chronicles was lengthy and quite detailed. It was considered an "Act of God" that this particular account was chosen to be read at that moment by the servant reader.)
 One thing to remember about king Xerxes: he took great pride in being known as a generous king and always giving people the honor due them, and was therefore probably a little shocked to find out Mordecai and his loyalty to the king had "slipped through the cracks"...oh I am sure Haman had nothing to do with that ( I say this in sarcasm).

 So, the servant reader replied to the king's question: " Well, now that you mention it, there was nothing done...I don't even think Mordecai received a note from you saying "Thank-you." Wow, my king, and he really did save you from harm!"
 Just as the servant reader and the king were going over this matter, the king became aware there was someone awaiting him in his outer court. It turned out to be Haman, who had just arrived at the palace...to ask the king to impale Mordecai on this pole he had prepared. (Why do I think this is not a good idea lol).
 So, the king inquired, "Who is it that has already arrived in the outer court?" The servant replied, "It is Haman...he is here." The king replied, "Excellent! Just the man I wanted to see...tell him to get right in here!"

 When Haman entered the king's inner room, the king immediately said to him: " What should I do to the man in whom the king delights to honor?" Haman, upon hearing the question addressed to him, thought to his arrogant self: "Hey, the king is already thinking about me...who else does he put more trust in...than me..of course!"
 So, Haman came up with this idea to say to the king, kind of Haman's own personal dream...like being "king for a day"...: "My king, for this man you would delight to honor, I would do this: First I would bring a royal robe that belongs to you, one that you actually wear on ocassion, and then I would get your royal horse...with the Persian royal enblem upon its head, and I would put your royal robes on this man, put him on your royal horse, and allow him to be led throughout the great capital of Susa, particularly in the city square and the Royal Gates, with an announcement being made throughout this ride proclaiming: " This is what the king does for those he chooses to honor!"

 The king replied to Haman: "Excellent! I knew I could count on you Haman! Quickly, take my royal robe that I wear now, and get my personal horse...then, do all you have suggested! Don't leave out one detail! Now, go get Mordecai, you know, the Jewish fellow we often see at the Royal Gate, and put my robe upon him, help him up on my horse, and why don't you lead him Haman, and announce what you suggested throughout his ride..."This is what the king does for those he chooses to honor!" Make sure he gets everyone's attention at the city square...and especially at the Royal Gates...before all the day's business is to be conducted! This is a great idea Haman!...Do it now!"
 So, Haman had no choice. He took the king's royal robes, gave them to Mordecai, helped him on the king's horse, and led Mordecai through he entire city of Susa just as the king had commanded. He went to the city square and to the Royal Gates and proclaimed to everyone: " This is what the king does for those he chooses to honor."

 After all this was completed, Mordecai returned to the Royal Gates, while Hamon hurried off home...mourning, totally dejected, completely humiliated, and with his head covered.
 When Haman arrived home, he then told Zeresh his wife, and all his friends what had just happened. So, Zeresh and Haman's friends could only offer this advice: "If Mordecai has humiliated you in this manner, and he is in fact a Jew...we are afraid your bad luck is only beginning!"
 And while they were yet speaking to Haman, the king's eeunuchs arrived and quickly took Haman to the banquet Queen Esther had prepared.

Queen Esther makes her move...Gleanings from Esther 5

Haman is being set up...big time! This guy forgot what the "Power of Love" can do...Celine Dion knew of the power!  Like the adage goes: "Never under estimate the power of a woman"! He is so "possessed" in destroying Mordecai, he was not even aware of his demise.
 Queen Esther meanwhile is trusting God, realizing coming into the king's presence could bring life....or it could bring death.
 This Queen is so cool....
       the Gleanings of Esther 5...

"On the 3rd day of the fast, Esther dressed herself in a Royal manner, standing in the inner court of king Xerxes, adorned in all her robes.
 She was actually standing across from the king's great hall. King Xerxes was seated so he could see directly to the entrance of his hall...and there...there she was...his eyes beheld her...in all her splendor...in all her beauty!
 Without a moment's thought, the king's heart simply melted at her sight, and she gained entrance...with the king's favor! The king immediately lifted his scepter and the beautiful Queen Esther approached and touched his scepter.
 Then, the king now totally mesmerized by her beauty and her character, spoke up and asked Queen Esther, " My Beloved Queen Esther, I am graced by your presence. What is on your mind, what desire can I help fulfill for you? Even at this moment, if you would ask me for 1/2 my kingdom, it is already yours!

 Queen Esther then approached the king, speaking with humility and out of respect, said: " If it would please you, my beloved king, I would ask both you and Haman come to a dinner I have prepared...in Haman's honor!"
 The king, still awestruck by Queen Esther, immediately spoke to his servants, "Get Haman...now! We are requested for dinner by my beautiful queen!"
 So, the king and Haman joined Queen Esther for the dinner she had arranged.

  The king, while being served wine, spoke once again to his gorgeous Queen, "My most lovely queen, what is it you want of me? I tell you...whatever it is...it is yours! 1/2 my kingdom? My darling, it is already yours!"
 Queen Esther then replied: " My beloved king, if you really insist, I will tell you what I ask for...in fact, it is my deepest wish! For if I am pleasing to you, and you find love in your heart for your faithful queen, then here is what I ask. I ask that you grace me with your presence in a banquet I have prepared for you...tomorrow! I also ask you bring Haman, your trusted advisor...with you. With both of you there, my heart would be pleased. Then, if my king would allow, I will discuss and reveal to you what is truly on my heart."

 Meanwhile, Haman was estactic from the Queen's request as he left the evening dinner. Yet, as Haman proceeded for home, he passed Mordecai who continued to refuse to stand as Haman walked by, in fact Mordecai totally ignored Haman as he went to his home. This caused a great inner rage in Haman...toward Mordecai, but Haman kept his emotions under control and went on home.
 When Haman arrived home, he immediately gathered his friends and his wife, Zeresh, to tell them of the news.
 Without hesitation, Haman went into a speech before them, bragging of all the apparent accomplishments he had done, starting with all the wealth he had accumulated, and all of his many children...including 10 sons!
 But he didn't stop there, Haman went on to boast of his favor with the king, all the promotions he had received, and the position he now holds...Chief Advisor to the King himself!
 Oh wait...there is more from Haman...."And that's not all!" Haman announces; " Queen Esther invited me to dinner...and only the king and I were asked to attend! And, she is so impressed with me, she is having a banquet tomorrow...and again!...only the king and myself are invited!"

 "But", Haman concluded on his self-honored speech, "With all this favor from the king and queen, and all the things I have been able to achieve...MORDECAI!! These banquets mean nothing when I even hear that name! Every time I pass the Royal Gates....I want to slay him on site!"
 So, his wife Zeresh proposed an idea to Haman and all his friends. "Listen!" she exclaimed. " Here is what you should do! Have some of our servants prepare a pole...as much as 75 feet high...and have it sharpened on one end. Then, in the morning...ask the king to have Mordecai impaled...on this pole! Then, you can go to the banquet Queen Esther has prepared for you and the king...and have no more thoughts about this...MORDECAI!" (Note: now this is one ruthless woman...right out of a Stephen King novel...how would you like to have someone like this to greet you each morning...don't even get close to any pole!).
 Haman really liked the idea Zeresh and all his friends had proposed...and ordered his servants to start on the project immediately!"

A True Fast...Gleanings from Isaiah 58:6-12

I think one of the biggest enemies to a Christian is hypocrisy. And the truth is, none of us are exempt from being "sucked into it "at one time or another in our lives.
Hypocrisy comes from the Greek word: hypokrisis. In Greek, it is a word that was used to mean playacting or playing a part...not the real person.
 The definition of hypocrisy is: having a pretense of virtuous character, having moral standards, and a Godly belief. In reality, this person does not possess any of the qualities.
                                    Gleanings from Isaiah 58:6-12

 " Fasting is just not refraining from food or giving up something personal...even if you say you do it to honor Me. True fasting involves commitment...to justice and to the poor. Here is what a true fast will produce in your life:
1. Breaking the chain of injustice and wickedness, freeing those who are wrongly imprisoned.
2. To lighten the burden of those bent beneath their load, breaking heavy yokes and exploitation in the workplace.
3. Free those who might be abused: verbally, emotionally, as well as physically, as well as those who are oppressed in various manners.

 Along with this, share your food with those less fortunate, help find a home for those with nowhere to go...even if it is your own home, share with someone in need of clothing, and don't hide from your relatives when they come around.
 For it is then your salvation will burst forth like the dawn, and you will see wounds in your life quickly healed. The Godly choices you have made will keep and guide you, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind...He has "got your back".
 Then, when you call on Me...I will already be there! 

 Remember, be fair and honest with everyone.Quit blaming others, and don't gossip about other people...including their sins.
 When you learn how to be generous, feed the hungry, giving yourself to those in need or are having trouble...you will see your light shine bright in the midst of the darkness.
 The Lord will be your guide...continually! You will be satisfied even when a drought face you. Your strength will return to you and you will look like a luscious garden well watered with rich soil.
 You will rebuild the foundations of lives left in ruin for many years, and you will be called, one who can be relied on...the restorer of people's lives."


I was surfing the web and came across "19 ways to help a person you know". I thought it was pretty real and practical...Here they are:
1. Power of a smile...it shows friendliness and can really impact another person or friend.
2. Volunteer to help a charity.
3. Donate something you don't use...not junk either.
4. Make a donation...instead of buying something you can really wait to get, give the money to someone or charity.
5. Redirect gifts...instead of receiving a gift, ask them to donate the money to someone or something.
6. Stop and help...flat tire, someone short on change
7. Teach...someone to use computer, ride a bike, take someone fishing.
8. Comfort...perhaps someone just down or going through a tough time
9. Buy food for someone struggling financially
10. Just listen to somebody.
11. Help someone totally stressed out...maybe a dinner, let them "vent"
12. Help someone get active...like a walk, invite them to the gym
13. Do a chore...clean up a yard, clean the toilet (guys..this is a tough one).
14. Send an e-mail of appreciation.
15. Show appreciation for someone...in front of others.
16. Donate food...clean out the cupboards, buy a couple of bags of groceries
17. Create a care package..for someone sick, like soup, a card, or chocolate.
18. Lend your voice..maybe someone got charged wrong on a bill
19. Love...a kind word, a hug, a random act of kindness.

                           "Lent can be a journey accompanied by Christ Jesus...to the Cross"

Sometimes we have to make hard decisions...Gleanings from Esther 4:10-17

Have you ever come into a situation in life, where you have to make a tough decision? You know in your heart what the right choice is, you just don't want to do it because of the possible outcomes of doing so....well, at least your mind tells you what will happen.
 Yet, what your mind tells you and what may actually happen can be two different things altogether. You know if you don't do what is right, you are going to have a hard time living with yourself for not doing it, and still you are afraid of the unknown as a result of doing what is right.

Esther faced this: she knew what Mordecai had told her was true...and she prepared herself to do what was right...even if it would cost her... her very own life. That is true courage...at least that is how I see it...ready to give it up if need be...in order to bring the truth and take that chance...to help the lives of others...as the Scriptures read in the New Testament: "Greater love has no one than when he/she lays down their lives for their friends"... Esther is cool!...real cool!
                                       Gleanings from Esther 4:10-17

 " Esther then speaks with Hathach the eunuch and says to him," Go tell Mordecai this: Everyone knows..I mean everyone...both here in the king's palace as well as everyone throughout the Empire, if anyone and I mean anyone dares walk into the inner room of the king's presence, and you do not see his golden scepter raised as a sign you have been called by the king..you are dead! That is the law of the land and no one is excluded from this law...including me! You cannot go into the king's presence unless he has asked for you...or you will be given punishment...and that punishment is...death! My dear Mordecai, I am the queen, and have not been called by the king for 30 days! How do you expect me to speak with him concerning this "Law of Death" to all the Jews when I would die for even trying to get close enough to speak with him?"
 So, Hathach went and found Mordecai once again and delivered the message sent by Esther.

 When Mordecai heard this message from Esther through Hathach, Mordecai returned a message to Esther. He said to Hathach to give to Esther: " Look, Esther, because you are the queen and are "livin' the dream", don't for a second think you will be exempt when this Law concerning all the Jews will in fact go into effect. You will not!...You will be killed right along with the rest of us...we are all in this together!
 Esther, listen to me! This is your time! You have got to find a way to speak up for all of us...directly with the king! Don't you think or perhaps realize that is why God has opened this door for you and made you the Queen of the Persian Empire?"

 Then, after Hathach relayed this message to Esther, she sent another message to Mordecai: " Ok, I do understand what you are saying...and I am starting to see "the picture a whole lot clearer" now. Here is what I would ask of you. Gather all of our Jewish brothers and sisters here in Susa, and have them fast for me. Ask them not to drink or eat anything for 3 days. My maids and I will do the same here.
 Then, even though the Law forbids it, I will go in to the inner room and walk into the king's presence. If I die because I do this...then die it must be."

 So, after Mordecai had received this message, he left the Royal City Gates and followed through what Esther had asked of him."

The Amalekites...hatred and evil...go hand in hand...

In the Book of Esther, Haman, one of the main characters in the story and the history of the Jewish people, was a  descendant of the Amalekites. This particular tribe was at war with Israel since even in the times of the Genesis writings (Genesis 14:7).
 They were always against anything Israel stood for, and according to Scripture had no fear of God Himself.
 The big thing about the Amalekites was God's command to Saul to kill all the Amalekites: their warriors, families, women, children, new-borns, the aged...everyone...and their livestock as well.
 Much has been written of that particular command by God to Saul, described in 1 Samuel 15-17.
There is much controversy over if we serve a God of love, why would He permit such an "atrocity", let alone initiate it.

 The Amalekites as far as I have read and studied are the descendants of Esau. Their main ancestor being Amalek, who was to have been the grandson of Esau.
 They were a bedouin tribe who mainly lived in the Judah region, or the southern part of what is now Israel.
 They made a "big splash" in Jewish history when they attacked the Israelites on their exodus from Egypt while travelling  to the Promised Land. Israel herself was not in the best of situations, having threatened to stone Moses for lack of water, and then Moses getting very upset with the people of Israel and hit the Rock that brought forth water instead of speaking to the rock, which cost Moses his entrance to the Promised Land.
 In the midst of all this, the Amalekites attack Israel from the rear, some historians claiming that the Amalekites were wanting to deny the Israelites water from the miracle God had made by bringing forth water from the rock.
 At any rate, the Amalekites attacked from the rear...the weak, the weary, and the aged. This was an atrocity both Israel and God never forgot.

 After reading various articles and views on the Amalekites and how this enmity had built up between Haman and Mordecai as brought out in the book of Esther, it becomes evident the Amalekite train of thought was they not only hated Israel...they had utmost disdain for the God they (Israel) believed in. And, in my humble opinion...lies the real problem.
 There are numerous articles written on if we as Christians serve a God of love, why would He order babies and pets to be killed?...even the livestock which Saul was commanded to do was to be slaughtered...which Saul did not...and had to answer for. (I Samuel 15)

 Well, here are my conclusions on situations like this that appear in history:
 First, I do believe our God through Jesus Christ is not only a God of love, but the Author of love itself.
 I don't have all the facts as to the Amalekites and their outcome, but here are some things I do know:
  1. For over a period of 400 years there were written documents on the Amalekites, not only in Scripture but in other historical documents as well (example being Egyptian history). In all these writings, it was apparent of the hatred this tribe had against Israel and there seems to be a inward hatred toward the God of Israel.
 2. In "Rules of Conduct" as to Israel's way of coming against another nation when entering the Promised Land, they initially offer a peaceful alternative prior to any battle. Did they do so with the Amalekites....I don't know.
 3. The Scriptures are clear as to what happened to Sodom and Gommorah, yet in Genesis 18 God clearly said that if 10 people were found who gave respect to the True God, He would not destroy Sodom and Gommorah.
 I have to wonder, were the Amalekites lifestyles so evil....I know they have connections in being Caananites and things like child sacrifices, sexual perversities, and general disrespect for human life all have origins from this culture.

 History is vast, and understanding of different times and eras are sometimes difficult because we try to look at different periods from our present day understanding of life. This is particularly so when it comes to militant events that are recorded.
 To this day, much is debated over The Crusades or even the events of the Civil War right here in the U.S.A. Why did Viet Nam happen the way it did...etc...etc.

 It is horrible to read of babies, aged, women, and children being killed in different periods of history, but I also have to accept this as a very real part of human history. All I know is the choices we make today have an impact on what we face in the future....like Haman in the book of Esther. His hatred for Mordecai wasn't enough to satisfy him...he wanted every Jewish citizen killed...including the aged, the children, and the newborn.
 Hatred for another can take life to extremes God never intended for us to go...and unless we are willing to repent of our actions, He sometimes I think has to "turn out the lights" on certain agendas before its evil influence triumph over the good.
 In the holocaust for example, with millions slaughtered, what if Hitler had won....? How would that affected human history?...or other evil leaders from the past...what if they would have survived and made their lifestyles a permanent mark in society.
 I think there is a time in history as a whole and individually as well, ignoring the numerous warnings God may well give...that He declares: "Enough, you will go no farther...you have exhausted your right to free choice...your crimes are too many..."

This is Bad...real Bad!! Gleanings from Esther 3

As this story unfolds, there is this guy in the Persian kingdom of king Xerxes who gets promoted with the framework of this government, his name being Haman.
 Haman's lineage goes back to the Amalekites, who at one time were bitter enemies of Israel, particularly during King Saul's reign.
 Mordecai's lineage goes back to Kish, which happened to be the name of King Saul's father, which is from the nation of Israel.
 To say their was "bad blood" between these two guys might be an understatement.....

                          Gleanings from Esther 3

 "A while later, king Xerxes promoted Haman, son of Hammedatha, who were Agagites, from the Amalekite nation. Haman was made the highest ranking official in the entire Persian government.
 Daily, everyone in the capital of Susa would meet at the Royal Gate to conduct various matters of business affairs, and with Haman's high ranking promotion, it was customary and a sign of respect to bow before Haman when he came to the Gate and participate in these business matters. So, all the citizens attending would bow before Haman...except for Mordecai...he simply refused to bow.

 Because Mordecai would not give Haman the customary respect by bowing in his presence, the king's own servants approached Mordecai to question him as to why he refused to do so. The king's servants would ask: "Why do you not honor the king's promotion of Haman and bow before him in respect to his new office?"
 The servants of the king addressed this matter to Mordecai for quite some time, but Mordecai refused to give Haman the type of respect a high ranking official would normally receive...by bowing to Haman.
 So, the king's servants went to Haman himself and inquired with him concerning Mordecai's behavior, knowing Mordecai was Jewish and Haman was not.
 When Haman was made aware of this and then saw for himself Mordecai's refusal to bow down when Haman walked by...Haman became filled with rage!

 Haman was quite aware Mordecai was Jewish, and his hatred toward the Jewish people was already in his heart. Therefore, Haman did not only want to vent this rage he had toward Mordecai alone, he wanted, at that point, to have every Jew throughout the entire Persian kingdom  be eliminated.
 In the first month of Nisan (April) during the 12th year of Xerxes reign, Haman cast the purims (something like dice), to determine the best day and month to take action against Mordecai and the entire Jewish population. The purims indicated the 12th month of Adar on the 13th day, which would be March 7th of the next year.

 Haman then approached king Xerxes and said:" Your Majesty, there is a certain race of people scattered throughout your kingdom including all the provinces of Persia who choose to separate themselves from the rest of the people of your kingdom. Their customs and laws are quite different from all those who have the luxury of being here. Now, here then lies the problem. These people refuse to honor and obey your very laws O king.
 I therefore suggest it is not in your best interest to let these people even live in our great land. I advise you O king, that is if it would please you, to generate orders to gather all these "strange" people of the Jewish faith and have them destroyed...all of them! In fact, to show my loyalty to you my king, I will pay for this myself in having this accomplished. I will donate to the king's treasury 10,000 large sacks of silver (375 tons) to finance this whole affair.

 King Xerxes agreed to Haman's request, and gave to Haman the king's signet ring, allowing Haman to have all authority to seal letters of approval for this matter.
 So, on April 17th, all the king's secretaries were summoned, and a decree was written exactly as Haman dictated it. Haman then had all the letters stating this decree sealed with the king's own signet ring, and these letters were sent to every province within the kingdom of Persia. King Xerxes himself ordered these letters to be sent by the swiftest messengers they had.
 The letters decreed the following:" All Jews, whether young or old, including all women and children must be killed and annihilated...all in one day! The date for this execution to take place is March 7th of the next year. All property belonging to any member of the Jewish race will be given to those who slaughter them."
 To ensure all this would be done correctly, copies of the decree were issued to each province who in turn would make it a law throughout the land and make known to all peoples living in Persia, who would follow the plan to completion on the day allotted.

 And so it was. The swift messengers were sent out, and it was proclaimed as well in the capital city of Persia, Susa.
 Then, the king and Haman sat down to drink......

       but there arose a problem,,,for the city of Susa was in shock...totally confused by this
                                                              and the alarming new decree....."

Gleanings from Esther 1:10-22...Uh, I don't think this would get far...today!

Customs are different throughout the world and various cultures we live in. Now, I don't know why Queen Vashti did not want to come into King Xerxe's presence, perhaps because she didn't want to be "gawked at" by a bunch of drunken men...I really don't know.
 Anyway, this is how it all happened...Gleanings from Esther 1:10-22

 " Now on the 7th day of this banquet for all the people of Susa and surrounding area, King Xerxes was feeling pretty good....he had consumed much wine in the week's celebration.
 He told the 7 eunuchs that attended the king, their names being Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas...to bring to him his queen, the Royal Vashti, and tell her(first mistake lol) to wear her royal crown as she enters. The king actually wanted to show off his queen to the nobles and men in attendance, for Queen Vashti was one beautiful woman!
 But, to the surprise of all, when the eunuchs went and delivered this request to Queen Vashti, she refused and would not come. As a result, King Xerxes became visibly upset...in fact he was furious...burning with anger. (Lesson for men: when you drink, ignore any ideas that require your wife's participation lol). 

 So, the king called for his advisers and brought them together, for they were aware of all the Persian customs and their laws, and the king depended on them for their advice. (Lesson #2 for men: if you do make some request to your wife when in a drunken state...take it as a clue...don't call everyone you know and make a big deal of it...let it go!)
 Now, the name of these advisers were: Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan...a total of 7. These were the highest ranking princes of the Persian and Media Empire...the "Inner Circle" of the king's throne.
 King Xerxes wanted to know from the advisers what he was suppose to do since this idea with Queen Vashti kind of "blew up in his face" ( why didn't someone suggest he just go and get some sleep).

 So Memucan spoke up before all present: " What Queen Vashti has done has not only wronged the king, but puts us all in a very bad spot here. All of our wives will get "wind of this" before the day is even over, and we will have a mess on our hands...our wives won't listen to a word we say (men do get paranoid you know).
 So, if the king would so agree, I think a hard decision has to be made....and then we need to make this Law...ASAP. I think it should read something like this: "Because of Queen Vashti's behavior toward her husband, the king, refusing his request to come into his presence as so ordered, her act of refusal leaves the king no choice but to ban her from coming into the king's presence...ever!"
 On top of that, I would recommend Queen Vashti be replaced with a new queen...that will know how to conduct herself in a manner that is respectful to you o king.

 Now, when this decree is made law and is distributed throughout the empire, then wives everywhere will give their husbands respect at all times, not just when they feel like it or choose to rebel and humiliate him. ( Really? Do they really think a law will change the heart of a woman?...amazing stuff guys come up with when they have had too much to drink!)
 The king and all his advisers thought: "This is a good idea! It makes good sense!" So, king Xerxes followed the advice of Memucan, and sent letters throughout the empire, in various languages and dialects, simply stating the man is the master of his own household, and what he says...goes!...period! (And that was the beginning of the fall of the Persian empire...just kidding!).

 Note: I am so glad as an American and especially a Christian we don't treat  wives, girlfriends, or women in general in this matter. (I do know of some...even in Christian churches who have "laws" about women that would sound similar to Xerxes and his buddies).
 Respect for each other and understanding where the other is coming from is what makes a relationship strong...not trying to overpower the other with dominance, removing things, or simply reacting to something you don't understand at the moment. If you are set on "getting plastered"....keep your thoughts to yourself...it will only hurt...not help!
  I thank the Lord Jesus for His love for us...and how to make it work in our own daily lives!
  

Oh Zebulun...Oh Naphtali...Your Warriors Have Fallen...Gleanings from Isaiah 9:1-7

In the first 7 verses of this chapter in Isaiah, the Assyrian assault has already begun. The pain and sorrow that accompanies this is almost unspeakable.
 Yet, God offers the land of Judah and Israel hope...hope for their future! He has not forgotten them, and will rescue them once more.
 Zebulun, west of Galilee and Naphtali, north of Zebulun, were the first to fall at the hands of Assyrians.
Yet, in all this suffering...a great promise is made...and will be echoed through the ages to come...He is Coming!...and will gather His people....
                                               Gleanings from Isaiah 9:1-7

 " In the midst of the suffering, in the midst of the pain, in the midst of gloom...there will be an end!
 West of Galilee, the land of Zebulun...will be humbled. North of Zebulun, the land of Naphtali will be brought low.
 Yet I tell you the time comes when He will make these lands glorious once again. The lands that are by the Way of the Sea...the Sea of Galilee...will be glorious...the Galilee of the nations!

 For the people that have known and walked in darkness...will have seen a Great Light! And for those who have dwelt in the land of utter darkness, and embraced the shadows of death..a Great Light will shine!
 You will my Lord, enlarge the nation of Israel. This will cause her people to rejoice. They will have in them a joy...like that at a full and plentiful harvest! They will be likened to warriors, who after battle, now divide the spoil!
 For the yoke of slavery that is upon Israel...will be broken. The weights upon her shoulders and the rods that oppress her back...all shall be broken...just as in the days of Gideon, when Israel was set free from the wicked hands of the Midians, crushed and destroyed by You, my King! For the boots of war and clothes stained with blood, will be burned...used as fuel for our own fires!

 For this saying is true: " There will be a Child born among us...a Son that is of our own flesh and blood. Governments will yield and sit upon His shoulders, and He shall be called: Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, and our Prince of Peace!
 The government He brings will be filled with His Peace, and will be established forever! From the very throne of our beloved David, He shall rule with His True Justice and His Everlasting Fairness.
 The passionate commitment the Lord Himself has for us...will also make this all happen for us!

Summary and Thoughts on the Early Chapters of the Book of the Prophet Isaiah

As I have studied through the first 8 chapters of the book of Isaiah, sometimes I have to "step back" a moment and get a grip on what I feel is being said. In these early chapters, Isaiah really brings out in my mind the importance of developing a relationship with Christ Jesus that is real, and not to get in a routine with Him where I just go through the motions of daily life and lose the excitement of knowing Him, but rather allow my life the experience what it means to be called  : Christian.

 It seems Isaiah preached to what appeared was a very "religious" people of his day. After all, the people in Judah fasted, they said prayers, celebrated holy days, and even brought sacrifices to Jerusalem.
 Yet, with all these "outer works" on display...God rejected them. He rejected the customs, the duties, and ceremony as ways of following and knowing Him. Why? Why would He do that? There are 3 things that "pop" in my mind as to why God did reject it and what He really wanted from them...and from each one of us today!

 1. The things they did... were not being done from their hearts. Sometimes life can just be a "rut"...like you are stuck in the mud and are going absolutely nowhere. My relationship even with the Lord can get like that if I don't give my full attention to Him.
 In order to get out of ruts I have found I need to shake things up a bit...like do one of those "random acts of kindness" things...something totally different than I would normally do... the key to it...I do it for others!
 I think that is kind of what happen in Isaiah's day...these "guys" forgot about why they gave their lives to God in the first place...and they let their relationship with God run itself into the ground...they lost the joy of knowing Him.
 I can tell when I need to shake things up a bit...I start getting callous toward prayer, or reading His Word, burnt out from going to church,etc. It happens...to everybody!
 That's when you got to have a "get real" prayer time, speak to God about how you have become bored with following Him...and He will always show you where you went off track. He also has great ideas on how to "shake your life up" and get out of the rut.
 What you don't want to end up doing is what I think happen to the people of Judah during Isaiah's time. They chose to get into the "selective obedience" mode, thinking Ok, I will put some time in for God...and the rest I will do for myself. If saying a prayer, backing off some food, or offering a sacrifice makes God happy..then Ok. Everything else...belongs to me!

 2. Giving to God "lip service" but not wanting to let Him in and change your heart.
Sometimes it seems much easier to say "Hey...look God!...did You not see me in church service last Sunday....including Sunday School!? I even went over and shook hands with that "creep" I can not stand.
 So, here is the deal...I gave You Sunday at church...now on Wed. nite my friends and I are going to have a seance...real innocent stuff...just for fun! So, we're even, right?

 Again, I think the people in Isaiah's day viewed God as a matter of "trades"....I do this for You, You turn Your head a little and give me a little room to do my thing.
 When we start to lose our love for Him...when we lose our friendship and the sheer joy of being close...when all a relationship boils down to is "Yes dear, OK dear, whatever you want dear"...the heart had already left "the building" long before.
 For myself...I would be doing some research and get ideas on "First Love". Talk it over with someone you trust and has good relationship with Christ...the answer is out there...just be ready to accept it and be willing to change what is necessary to be with Him!

 3. I give...give...give! This kind of goes along with the second one...and you know what I do not like at all....is when people are constantly told if they will simply drop some cash down on...even to a ministry...God will pay you back and bless you more than you could ever ask or think!
 Now don't get me wrong, there is an element of truth in all that...but there are some variables missing in the concept by itself....like a person's character, or their integrity, or loving one another. I think that is what was going on in general in Isaiah's day....nice people...no heart!

 In Eugene Peterson's writing of the Scriptures called "The Message", he writes as interesting way of interpreting 1 Corinthians 3:20. It reads: "He exposes the chicanery of the chic. The Master sees through all the smoke screens of the know-it-alls...those who have an answer for everything."

 The "chicanery of the chic"...a great way of saying it. For those who might not understand the meaning of this phrase, chicanery simply means to deceive someone, to go through life by the use of tricks. Chic is defined as someone who looks good but has a tattered look about them, almost ratty in appearance.
 So, you could read this verse of scripture like..."God exposes all the deceitful tricks of one who looks good on the outside, but is really tattered and ratty on the inside."

I think that is how I see what was going on in Isaiah's day...much like today.

You haven't been to a party until you go to a Persian Party!...Gleanings from Esther 1:1-9

This is one strange book in the Bible! First of all, no one really knows who wrote this book. Some scholars think it could have been Mordecai or perhaps the prophet Ezra, but that is up for argument. Second, no where else in the Bible is this book even mentioned. Third, this is the only book where the name of God is not even mentioned. Hmmm? Mystery Book? I don't know...On top of all that, other scholars think this book is a story...not a true one...a fairy tale! Hmmm? I thought the entire Bible was true...right?
 So, here I am...reading the Book of Esther. What is known about this book is this story took place around 483 B.C., approximately 100 years after Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon had attacked and defeated Judah and the beloved city of Jerusalem. Many Jews had been brought to Babylon as slaves (586 B.C.), and 70 years later the Babylonian armies were defeated by the great Persian Empire led by King Darius. Now, Xerxes, the King of Persia had granted the Jews the right to return to their homeland in Judah. The fact was, many Jews did not, but chose to remain under Persian Rule.
 The writings in this book (which I myself think are true) indicate someone very familiar with Persian customs...Gleanings from Esther 1:1-9

 " Here is the way it was. King Xerxes of Persia lived in his capital city known as: Susa. Xerxes was now a ruler of over 127 different provinces that stretched from India all the way to Ethiopia.
 During the 3rd year of Xerxes reign, the King decided to give a banquet for all his foreign dignitaries: governors, princes, rulers, and the like, as well as officers, other officials, and ministers within the framework of his entire government.
 This banquet would turn into one large exhibit of the huge wealth of the Persian Empire...and it lasted...6 months! It was a tremendous display of splendor, a most elaborate array of pomp and glory, showing the power and the majesty of this magnificent kingdom.
 When the whole affair finally concluded, King Xerxes then decided to have another festival, this time for the local folk of the community, from the least to the greatest...for everyone who lived in the capital city of Susa and the surrounding area.This banquet was to be held in the courtyard of the palace garden and would last a total of 7 days.

 Now, this courtyard was truly something to behold! The entire garden area was beautifully decorated with white luxurious cotton curtains draped with purple linens and cords with silver rings...all hung from marble columns.
 There were gold and silver sofas, arranged on mosaic pavement that consisted of porphyry, marble, mother of pearl, and numerous other colored and valuable stones.
 The drinks of the banquet were served in goblets made of gold, each one having its own unique design, and the wine was rich and pure...with "no end"! You could simply drink to your heart's delight. In fact, King Xerxes had pronounced an edict that stipulated there were no limits to the amount of wine a person could drink...you could drink as much as you like!
 At the same time, Queen Vashti also gave a banquet...for all the women in the Royal Palace of King Xerxes as well.... "

The Choice is Mine...Gleanings from Isaiah 8:11-22

It seems to me if I learn anything from reading and studying the Sacred Scriptures, it is this: Following God is not all that complicated...it is simply a matter of choice. Do I do what He says to do, or do I refuse to do so and wander off and do my own thing? I think it is important for me in my daily walk with Christ to think before I act, to look to Him first before I hurry up and make a decision, and to believe what His Word declares...not what I might hear on the radio or see on T.V. His challenge to me is: "Do you believe Me?"
 And one more thing...I realize that if I choose not to trust and rely on Him...I will end up putting my trust in something...or someone. So I have to ask myself, "Why would I do that?...I must trust and wait for Him to act and bring the things I need in daily life...I want Him as a safe hiding place!

                           Gleanings from Isaiah 8:11-22

 " The Lord grabbed hold of me with His powerful hand and said:" Listen to Me! Don't act like...don't listen to...don't speak like...any of these people around you!
 Let Me make this perfectly clear to you. I do not want Judah forming an alliance with Assyria! Now, that being said, do not allow these people to get you down because I have told you what I feel and want...in fact, ignore all that talk that says you are part of some sort of rebellion or conspiracy that is "secretly" hoping to bring down Judah.
 These people that are saying all this are speaking out of the fear in their own hearts!...they are full of fear from the news about the alliance Israel formed with Syria, and think Judah should do the same...with Assyria! This fear is "eating them alive"...they are consumed with fear!

 As for you, don't accept any of this "talk birthed in their own fears". In fact, if fear is the choice or road they want they want to go down...then they should put all their energies in fearing the Holy-God-of-the-Angel-Armies! That type of fear is good and it is wholesome...promising good results! This "puny alliance" thing with Israel and Syria is a joke...and the crazy part is that it will not happen anyway!

Listen! My Word is still true! I am your Sanctuary, a safe place to hide amidst any of the storms of life...putting trust in Me will never do you wrong!
 But to those who live full of fear, and are looking in every direction for help and guidance except taking the time to look to Me, well, then I am a stumbling block...and they will trip over Me...I am a rock...and they will fall down! By failing to seek My counsel, both Israel and Judah will stumble and fall...hard!...breaking their very bones!
 Jerusalem is walking into a trap if they continue to carry on the way they are...they will be captured and dragged away!

 As for you, continue to honor and preserve My Word and the way of life I have taught you! Share My instructions with those who have entrusted their very lives and choose to follow Me!"

 I replied to the Lord: "I will!...I will wait for You, my Lord! Even though You are not pleased with Israel or with Judah, I will find solace in putting my trust in You!
 My own children, my wife, and me will serve as warning signs from the Lord God Himself...who continues to dwell in His Holy Temple atop Mt. Zion!

 Some have even resorted to asking mediums and those who speak with the dead. They even look to wizards and fortune tellers for counsel and for guidance. All their efforts in obtaining news of their future from these so-called soothsayers are nothing more than vain mutterings and whispers...full of lies! Besides, have they totally forgotten to seek You, O Great God of the universe! Does it make any sense at all that those who are living would seek help and advice from...the dead?
 No, as for me I will stay on the path of God's instructions, and tell others to do the same. I will keep my eyes on Him and trust in His Word.
 Those who choose to go elsewhere for advice will end up in total frustration, weary, hungry...and in rage!...cursing their own king and the Lord Himself!
 Then, they will look up into the heavens, backdown to the earth...but it does not matter. For, wherever they look...their own hearts can not be soothed of the anguish within them. Their hearts are full of dark despair and they shall be driven away...into the thick of darkness...into the obscurity of the night..." 

In Memory of Charles Dickens..."Happy Birthday!"

Today marks the day of Charles Dickens Birthday. February 7th, 1812. This would mark his 200th birthday...if God had so chosen for him to remain among us!

 Charles Dickens wrote about suffering...the suffering of those who were participants of a "New Age" at that time in history...the Industrial Age. England herself was one of the very first to embrace what has been a great permanent change in society since its origins in the early 1800's.

 Dickens wrote of the "Cry of the Poor"...seeing with his own eyes children, as young as 4 or 5 years old crawling into small crevices and holes in the tin mines to recover the precious metal society had demand of within that era. He saw for himself the emptiness in the poor's eyes, especially among the children...who worked in places like the tin mines for 12 to 16 hours a day.
 Dickens also was a witness to the funerals that "piled up" in the London area...directly due to these hellish and sheer horror work conditions. At one point , around 1840, 50% of all funerals in London were of children...aged 10 years old or less.

 With the Industrial Age coming into full swing, Charles Dickens also saw the great divide between the rich and the poor...the greed and the corruption of the financiers...creeping up to the Members of Parliament itself!

 Charles Dickens himself was well-acquainted with poverty, seeing his own father being sent to a debtor's prison and as a result forced to work in a factory fixing labels on jars of boot polish at the tender age of 12 years old.
 From that experience, Dickens was introduced to the cruelties of a "workhouse"...seeing families split apart for the sake of economics, seeing the cold harshness of child labor as well as the sheer pain of long hours at the treadmills.
 He was also made quite aware of the depravity of man, hearing and seeing the physical, emotional, and sexual abuse that thrived in these so-called "workhouses."

 Charles Dickens had seen much: in fact he was known to be an insomniac and had roamed many of the streets of London in the night hour...seeing pain and suffering in its rawest form.
 Charles Dickens decided to do something about it...the things he saw...the words he heard...the general evils of the society he lived in and were being looked over.
 His compassion for the poor overtook him...and history was changed!

 Although some of Dicken's writings are some of the greatest classics ever written such as "Oliver Twist" and "David Copperfield"...I will remember him for the greatest classic I ever had the honor of reading in my entire life: "A Christmas Carol".
 I will forever remember Charles Dickens as "the man who changed Christmas...around the world!"
 Up to that time, before that glorious day in December of 1843, when "A Christmas Carol" was to be published, Christmas was nothing more than a Mardi-Gras at best...simply a time to take a choice of what you wanted to indulge in: wine...or women...or song.
 That is, until that day....for it was then... the whole Holiday was changed and took on a brand new appearance, and this new appearance changed the whole world!
 Christmas has ever since been returned to its primary roots...to the family...and in particular...the children.
 Charles Dickens had 10 children of his own, and through his life he dedicated himself to the cause of the poor...which was centered on children.
 Although our society today has it's own "sin" to answer for as to how we treat children, certainly Charles Dickens has been a pioneer as to showing us how...for it is said his writings rescued literally millions of children from the "Doom of Death" he had seen with his eyes.
 We will forever be indebted to his "anointed use" of the pen, along with his compassion, perseverance, and the very heart...of Charles Dickens!

 May God in His Grace raise up more like Charles Dickens...and remind society of our obligation to always "Remember the needs of the Poor"!
 In the words of a young child who once said: "God bless us...everyone!"

"When you help the poor...you are lending to the Lord...." Proverbs 19:17(a)
"Anyone who oppresses the poor insults the God who made them. when you help the poor, you honor God."  Proverbs 14:31

"Be Careful What You Wish For...You Might Get It"...Gleanings from Isaiah 8:1-10

I have more than once heard the adage: " Be careful what you wish for...you might get it" numerous times in my own life.
 This chapter in Isaiah kind of reminds me of this adage. Judah had flat out refused to follow the "Ways of the Lord"...she wanted her own "independence"( personally I don't think we can experience personal "independence" which in my understanding simply means "freedom to express", anyway I don't think that is entirely possible until we give our hearts to Christ Jesus and begin to experience the freedom He has for us), so the people of Judah flat rejected the Great God who loves them.
 God references His love for them the way the gentle waters of Shiloah bring fresh water into the city of Jerusalem. Jerusalem , unlike other capital cities, did not live close to water, so an aqueduct was built and Shiloah was created as a gentle stream to bring water into Jerusalem....now, their rejection of the God's love for them is about to bring another type "waters" into Jerusalem....and this is far from a gentle stream....
                          Gleanings from Isaiah 8:1-10

  Then, the Lord spoke to me once more: " Get yourself a scroll, in fact I need you to obtain the largest scroll you can find, then I want you to write on this scroll. Now, when you begin to write what I dictate to you, I want you to use large and basic type lettering, so everyone here can read and understand it...make this big and bold...I need this written in the clearest language possible!
 Ok, write this: MAHER-SHALAL-HASH-BAZ . (this word means: a swift and quick way to plunder and become rich, and an equally quick way to get it and then carry it away)."

 The Lord continued: " According to Law, you will need two honest witnesses to confirm this document. Choose Uriah the priest and Zechariah, the son of Jeberekiah...they are both good men!"
 Soon after, I went home and spent time with my wife. She soon conceived, and gave birth to a baby boy!
 The Lord spoke to me again: "Name this child what you had written on the large scroll: MAHER-SHALAL-HASH-BAZ (Note: for those of you who might not like the name your  parents gave you...well...not so bad after all, right?)...the Lord continues:"Every time my people hear this child's name called, it will remind them of the prophecy on this scroll (this is the 2nd time the Lord has used one of Isaiah's own children to bring a message to Judah).
 For I tell you this now, before this child is able to say "Father" or "My Mother"... the riches of Israel's capital city of Samaria as well as the riches of Syria's capital city of Damascus, will both have been carried away by...the king of Assyria."

 A little later God had something else to say to me: " My love and care for Judah is much like the gentle streams of Shiloah that flow into Jerusalem...but they have rejected Me. Could you imagine damming up the water of Shiloah and preventing any fresh water from entering Jerusalem?... that would be crazy!...Yet, that is exactly what My people have done to Me!...they have not only refused Me...but they outright reject Me!
 At this moment, the people of Judah are excited on hearing the news about king Rezin of Syria and king Pekah of Israel...for both have been wiped out and no longer pose a threat to Judah.
 Yet, what the people of Judah don't know is this: Just like the gentle streams of Shiloah bring  fresh water to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, I, the Lord have cared for all the people of Judah in the same manner. But, since I have been rejected...almost like they have placed posters all over Judah with My picture on it!...and these words: "Do Not Listen to Him". Or, just like they have dammed up the very waters of Shiloah that give them water to sustain life...they have shut Me off...I am no longer wanted...they will no longer tolerate My love for them!
 So, I will enter Jerusalem another way...the gentle streams of Shiloah were not to their liking...how about this?...

 From the mighty Euphrates, I will send water...a flood like water...and enter Jerusalem! I am sending the king of Assyria in all his glory...in all his fanfare...to attack Judah...and to attack My beloved Jerusalem!
 The waters that come this way will be nothing like the gentle streams of Shiloah...this will be massive! It will come in like a flood...bursting over every bank...there is no stream that can contain this vast amount of water...Judah cannot stop the invasion of the king of Assyria!

 O Jerusalem, you are about to witness a "huge wingspan of a raging river"...the very power of the king of Assyria. He will sweep and cut everything before your very eyes...O Immanuel!...it has come even to your land!

 As for all you other nations, huddle together and get all excited if you so choose...your excitement won't last long. Go ahead...prepare for battle!...you shall be crushed!
 Go ahead and develop war strategies, bring together your "wise warriors" and have your council of war...you won't even get your plans "off the ground"....before you know it there will be only a phrase left to describe the likes of all of you: "We are history...We are "toast"!

 For even though Judah has been cut down...I will come to them when they call...something I will not do for any "pagan nations"....

   O Immanuel....God is with us...."

"Pious" Answers...makes God sick!...Gleanings from Isaiah 7:1-12

The nation of Israel had been split, the northern half of the country being Israel and the southern half being Judah with its capital being Jerusalem.
 The thing about these verses is how King Ahaz of Judah responds to God...He is very pious sounding in his words toward the Lord...but his heart is far from Him.
       That's messed up...Gleanings from Isaiah 7: 1-12

 "During the time of King Ahaz, who was the son of Jotham and grandson of Uzziah, all kings of Judah..., there was news that Pekah the king of Israel had made an alliance with Syria and were planning to attack Judah, particularly Jerusalem. It turned out to be nothing more than "news"...the plan to do this was never carried out.
 Now when the news of this had reached the Royal Court of Judah...King Ahaz totally "freaked"and as a result the people of Judah lived in fear. In fact, it was so bad they literally shook...like leaves on trees that are blown by the wind or for some like the trees themselves being blown fiercely by a storm.

 God spoke to Isaiah and said:" Go and speak with Ahaz of Israel, and take your son Shear-jashub (his name meaning "A Remnant-Will-Return") with you. Meet with him at the canal of the Upper Pool on the highway to Fuller's Field, it's near the road where cloth is washed.
 Tell him to stop worrying. These two "burnt out" cinders have nothing in them but smoke...both of them, King Rezin of Syria and King Pekah of Israel. They are just talking "smack"...that's all it is...just cheap talk.
 Now, it is true they are plotting against Judah and focused on Jerusalem, and they have made some pretty bold statements....not gonna happen...but bold. They even went as far to say after they capture Jerusalem they will set up a new king of Judah...Tabeel.
 Nice..isn't that nice...the problem with that is: 1) they didn't ask you (lol) and more importantly 2) they didn't ask Me.

 So, here is what I have to say about these plans of theirs. First, it's a "dud" from the start. Their strength when they are on their "A-game" is weak at their very best. Both Damascus of Syria and the nation of Israel are not "all that", even with the reputation of the warrior Pekah.
 Now, I the Lord have news for them....within the next 65 years max, Israel will be crushed to pieces..they will no longer be a people let alone a nation.
 Now listen to Me Ahaz, king of Judah...there is something you need to do right now or you won't make it...you won't be around much longer. Here is what I want you to do: believe Me...believe what I am telling you...you must believe what I say to you."

 Later, the Lord sent another message to King Ahaz of Judah. He said, " Look, to help you get some confidence on this matter...I want you to ask me for a sign...a conformation to what I am telling you. You can make this request as specific or unusual as you want...it can be something "wild"....choose from anywhere!...the highest in the heavens...or look below...right down into the place of the dead! I will follow up with the confirmation...you call it!"

 But King Ahaz got all "religious" toward the Lord, and answered Him in a way that sounded very pious and humble..but the truth of the matter King Ahaz was faking it...not a good thing to do with God! King Ahaz replied," I won't do that, I won't ask You for a conformation....I will not put what You have already told me...to the test."
 The truth of the matter was King Ahaz was already in negotiations with Tiglath-Pileser III, of Assyria, to help Judah "take out" both Israel and Syria. Ahaz was more confident in these negotiations than with putting his heart in trust to what the Lord had told him he would do for him.......not a good idea...no, not a good idea at all.

John the Baptizer...part 2

Israel and Judah had not seen or heard from a prophet since the days of Malachi, approximately 400 years prior.  Malachi himself had made mention of such a man as John who was to come in chapter 3:1; "Look! I am sending my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. Then, the Lord you are seeking will suddenly come to his Temple. The messenger of the covenant, whom you look for so eagerly, is surely coming," says the Lord of Heaven's Armies. (New Living Translation)
 Jesus Himself refers to John from this passage in Malachi in Matthew 11;10, Mark1;2, and Luke 7:27.

 Another note of interest concerning the arrival of  John the Baptizer; the conditions of the times in both Israel and in Judah. Roman rule had been clearly established, and the pagan influence of Roman culture had filtered down into the minds and hearts of the Jewish people themselves.
 Although the Law was still being taught in the synagogues, the heart of the message and the original purpose of the Law had been "covered up" for quite some time. Now, the Law was nothing more than a hierarchy putting demands on the poor, and then having the arrogance in exalting themselves as to how "holy" they are because of the strict adherence to Jewish Law...which now was saturated in customs and traditions (over 2000) that were never intended or had origin in the Old Testament scripture themselves. Life had become one big "blur"....Jewish traditions and Roman law...nothing seemed to make any sense anymore (kind of sounds familiar to me...like maybe that is how we are today?).
 In fact, in some writings of  ancient historians pointed to clear indicators of how perverse this generation of John's time had actually become. "Absolute", or to "know what is right" was pretty much "down the tubes" during that time in history. The sanctity of marriage had been severely diluted, abortion was more common than one might think, and it was tolerated to have new-borns murdered for the "sake of family" or for the economic future of a particular region.
 The understanding of Scripture and following the Law was at an all-time low, a vivid example being when Jesus cleared out the Temple. It was a "dog eat dog" world, and the hatred between Jews and Romans escalated with the arrival of John and soon to be the Messiah.
 In the first chapter of Luke, it is written John was born of a Jewish priest named Zechariah who was a priest of the order of Abijah, and Elizabeth, who also was of the priestly line of Aaron. Then, in verse 6 the scriptures declare Zechariah and Elizabeth were righteous in the eyes of the Lord. Hmmm...
   I think it was quite apparent at that point and time the priesthood had been badly abused, and a righteous priest had to be identified from those who were not.
 John mirrored the ways of Elijah, of who many thought he was. Elijah was regarded highly by the Jewish community and as John grew his reputation also grew...and was respected if for no other reason than for his identity with Elijah. The scriptures mention of three distinct areas John baptized people in water; 1) in Bethany beyond the Jordan 2) near Aenon, and 3) an area located at the Jordan River itself. These specific areas had been brought up in scripture before...these were 3 specific places Elijah had been.
 John wore clothes made of camel's hair and a leather belt....he wasn't the first...Elijah had wore the same when he was here on earth.
 One other interesting note. When John sent his disciples to ask Jesus about who He was, for at this time John had now been imprisoned and was soon to be beheaded, Jesus response to John's disciples were taken from the prophet Isaiah. Jesus said to tell John "the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good News is announced to the poor" (Luke 7:21-23). He quoted these from Isaiah 26:19, 29:18-19, 35:5-6, and 61:1-2.
 In all the references to Isaiah, Jesus left out one from the Isaiah passages when speaking this to John's disciples who would in turn relay this to John. Jesus left out "and the prisoners will be set free"......

Hardening of the Heart...Gleanings from Isaiah 6:8-13

Is there such a thing as a "Divine Hardening"? It's a hard one one to comprehend, especially in our western culture and in a society today that promotes acceptance of one another.
 Yet, I think there is something being conveyed in Isaiah that says there is such a thing.
  Today we are given to accepting each other, regardless of our religious beliefs, our sexual preferences, or age groups. These ideals have a "noble ring" to them, and certainly bring a feeling of tranquility with one another.
  But what is it we sacrifice to embrace such beliefs? Does Truth really exist and find its fullness by simple acceptance of those who may be different than you...or myself? Is this what Jesus taught?...Is that where all of us as members of the human race are heading toward...a blending or "melting together" of our beliefs and be able to look at one another and say: "Can't we all find a way to just get along?"

 My idea of a hard heart is one who doesn't care about others, have little or no respect for their elders, abusive to others...both verbally as well as physically, and their belief is the ONLY belief...it's either "my way or the highway!"
 Yet, I wrestle with these few verses here in Isaiah. What is God saying to Isaiah? Why did He allow them to go through a terrible Exile (both with Assyria and with Babylon)? Was it because their hearts had become so hard they had reverted to being so barbaric they acted like wild animals? Or, was it something else?

 I personally think when we become hard-hearted, it doesn't always have to be like having "wild pagan rituals", running from neighborhood to neighborhood killing anyone in sight or breaking in and stealing anothers possessions in some out-of-control setting.
 There is another way we become hard-hearted.....rejecting Christ as the Only True Son of the Living God and rejecting His Word that He gave us. And, this rejection can be very subtle and persuasive, even convincing at times. It can even appear in a society like we live in today....having a so-called peace and just getting along. But the question I have in all this is: "Is that what God wants of us....are we "livin' the dream" according to His Way? Can we all just accept each other as to who we are, whether Buddhist or Christian, Muslim or Agnostic, straight or gay, etc. etc. as long as we find a way to get along? Is this what God wants....or are we missing something?

 In John 14:6, Jesus answers a question Thomas had asked him in regard to knowing how we are to follow Christ, and it reads: " I am the Way...I am the Truth...I am the Life...and no one can come to the Father (the True God) except...through Me." (NIV).
 In the midst of our finding a utopia society, this saying Jesus spoke kind of messes things up a bit..at least to a true believer in Jesus Christ. Now I must say at this point we as Christians are always to treat one another regardless of our religious beliefs or any concepts we might have about life with the utmost respect and admiration. That being said...are we as Christians to say to another of a different religious belief for example..."Hey, your cool! I think your way of finding God is as good as our Christian way.".......Hmmm?

  I think as I read and contemplate the rest of these verses in Isaiah 6...there seems to be  a question and challenge when it it comes to finding True Peace within ourselves and in our society...Is God included in all this? Can we become hard-hearted to the ways of the Lord in the pursuit of a so-called "peaceful and accepting" society where the Sacred Scriptures are respected...but not necessarily obeyed because it might offend another who lives along with us and chooses not follow the teachings of the Sacred Scriptures, or perhaps interprets the Scriptures in an entirely different manner?

My thoughts on all this? There is only one way we will ever find out.. when the storms of life hit...we will find what we are really made of. You have often heard the saying: "Time will tell." One other thought: in Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus gives an interesting conclusion to His Sermon on the Mount "series" He had just shared with a large crowd of people. It reads (this is from the Amplified Version): "So everyone who hears these words of Mine, and acts upon them, and obeys them, will be like a sensible, prudent, practical, and wise man who built his house on rock.
 And the rains fell, and the floods came, and the wind blew, and beat against the house...yet!...it did not fall...because the foundation of this house to which it was attached was embedded deep within the rock...below the surface..anchored for times such as these.
 And, everyone who hears these words of Mine, but chooses not to do them, not to obey them, choosing to follow another direction...is like a stupid and foolish man who had a house not far from the man who had built his house with the rock foundation.
 But, this man chose not to build a foundation into the rock and attach his house to it...instead, he simply built his house on top of the sand itself. And, the rains fell, the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat against the house...and it fell..and the collapse of this house was complete..it was wiped out...coming down with a thunderous crash."

 
                         Gleanings from Isaiah 6:8-13

 "Then I heard the Lord ask a question in the presence of His holy angels saying: "Who should I send?...and who is it that would go for us?"
 I then spoke, "Here I am,...send me." The Lord spoke once more, " Yes, I have heard you and I want you to be our messenger...now is the time to go and tell these people this very message: You hear My Words...continually they are before you...yet... you are deaf! My Words fall upon deaf ears. You recite My Word...even "chant" My Word each week in your gatherings...but your hearts are cold and hard...far from Me and what I ask of you. You see My Word...looking at them with your very eyes...yet you are blind...you are blind to what you see and read.
 So, the hearts of these people are being hardened...to My Word. This has come because it is their own choice and My decision is to give them what they want.

 Their ears are plugged to My Word because they refuse to hear what I have to say and instead choose to hear what they want to hear;
 Their eyes are blind to My Word because they refuse to see what I have for them and instead choose to see what they want to see;
    they simply have chose to ignore and reject the clarity of My Word.
 They have made their final decision: that is...Refuse Me, and refuse to receive of Me their true healing."

 Then, Isaiah spoke to the Lord and said, "How long will all this go on? How long will these people remain like this?"

 And the Lord answered him, " Until their towns and their homes are emptied, deserted, and destroyed. Until their whole country is nothing more than wasteland, the land of Israel is entirely desolate.
 And even if a tenth...a remnant survive all this...Israel will be invaded once more...and this time burned down completely.
 It will be like this: imagine your eyes behold a large forest full of oak and of pine...but every tree has been cut down and all you see is a large field of stumps.
 But, within those stumps.....
                        there is a seed........
                                           a Holy Seed......"

Touched by a Red Hot Coal...Gleanings from Isaiah 6:1-7

Isaiah 6 is written here to confirm the beginning of the great ministry of Isaiah. This is an awesome text that stands alone and unique in relation to the tremendous vision Isaiah writes about.
          Isaiah's life is about to change...

 The actual setting for this chapter is around 742 B.C. King Uzziah had just died, and now his son, who was wicked, was about to take the throne.
 Uzziah had been regarded as a good king of Israel, but during the latter days of his life he had become a proud man...to the point he usurped the role of a priest, which could only come by a special anointing. As a result, that didn't work out well for King Uzziah, for God struck him down in the midst of his attempt to fulfill the role of a priest.
 Now, matters were only to get worse for Israel as Uzziah's son became king, and his heart was given to evil, and not to God.

 Meanwhile, Isaiah was given a vision that was about to change his entire life. Isaiah beheld the "Holy One"...the Great God-of-the-Angel-Armies...seated on His throne...in all His Glory...

                                       Gleanings from Isaiah 6: 1-7

 "It was in the year King Uzziah died...that I actually beheld Him...the Holy One...the Lord Himself! He was seated on His throne, and it was a lofty throne. His throne was high...and it was lifted high into the heavens, and the thing that struck me was the length of just the skirts of His very robe!...it was so long and wide the ends of His robe filled the entire Temple!

 Above the Lord, in flight around Him, were these seraphim...these "burning ones"! Each seraphim had six wings: two were used to cover their faces, two more were used to cover their feet, and two wings enabled them to remain in flight around the Mighty Throne of God Himself.
 These seraphim were calling out to one another: " Holy...Holy...Holy...is the God-of-the-Angel-Armies...for the entire earth blazes with Your Glory!"
 Now, while all these seraphim were announcing these proclamations to one another of the Greatness of the True Holy One...the very Temple was beginning to shake, right to its foundation. I watched as the door posts, the thresholds, the whole place shake, and while this was going on...the entire building was filled with smoke!

 Then, I spoke,"It's all over for me! I am as good as dead! Everything I say is nothing more than perverse and sinful to You, O Holy One! There is no friend to call upon, no relative, whether distant or close at hand, no one who has ever lived or no one who will live...there is simply no one who can stand before the Great and Holy One...for we are all unclean...before You!
 Yet, in the midst of all this....I have been given great favor...for my eyes have beheld the Great King!...the God-of-the-Angel-Armies...and...I have seen Him, and the Glory about Him!

 Then, almost out of nowhere, one of the seraphim flew directly to me. He had a live coal in his very hand, one he had picked up with tongs from the altar. The seraphim then took this hot coal that was in his hand and put it on my very lips...then said to me," You see, this living coal has touched your lips; this enables all your iniquity...all your sin...to be removed. Now, your sin is forgiven...to be remembered no more."

A Couple of Notes to Ponder:
 1. The hot coal is like a fire of God's judgment upon mankind...which culminated in His Son Jesus, who went to the Cross for each one of us. God's fire of judgment did not harm Jesus, but instead burned away sin...all sin...our sin.
 2. The idea of recognizing we are sinners, like Isaiah cried in his vision, equally awakens us to the reality of how much the Lord Himself hates sin..all sin that has invaded our very lives.