August 31 – Holidays – Holy Days

Leviticus 23:1 The LORD spoke again to Moses, saying…

v.5-6 In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at twilight is the LORD'S Passover. Then on the fifteenth day of the same month there is the Feast of Unleavened Bread to the LORD; for seven days you shall eat unleavened bread.

v.10 Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, When you enter the land which I am going to give to you and reap its harvest, then you shall bring in the sheaf of the first fruits of your harvest (Feast of First Fruits) to the priest.

v.16 You shall count fifty days to the day after the seventh sabbath; then you shall present a new grain offering to the LORD. (Pentecost or Feast of Weeks or Harvest)

v.24 Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, In the seventh month on the first of the month you shall have a rest, a reminder by blowing of trumpets, a holy convocation (Feast of Trumpets).

v.27  On exactly the tenth day of this seventh month is the day of atonement; it shall be a holy convocation for you, and you shall humble your souls and present an offering by fire to the LORD.(Day of Atonement)

v. 34 Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, 'On the fifteenth of this seventh month is the Feast of Booths for seven days to the LORD.

v. 39 On exactly the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when you have gathered in the crops of the land, you shall celebrate the feast of the LORD for seven days, with a rest on the first day and a rest on the eighth day.(Feast of Sacred Assembly)

John 10:22 At that time the Feast of the Dedication took place at Jerusalem (Hanakkah).

Esther 9:18-32  The command of Esther established these customs for Purim, and it was written in the book.

The Lord God instituted a year of festivals—celebrations for all times. These are Jewish Holidays—set by the Hebrew calendar which begins the year in mid-March. Wonderful thing about the Hebrew festivals is that Passover, Unleavened Bread, and First Fruits have been prophetically fulfilled in the Christian history. Jesus died at the exact time of the killing of the Passover lamb—thus He was the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. Like unleavened bread, His body was pierced and striped, wounded with the scourging prior to crucifixion. When Jesus was resurrected the feast of First Fruits was fulfilled. He was the first of many that will one day experience resurrection. What a day that will be for all those who believe in Him!

Now, at the end of August we are in the Hebrew month of Elul and the next holiday is the Feast of Trumpets the Jewish New Year, also called Rosh Hashanah. This is an exciting holiday, prophetically, since it will begin the seventy years described in Daniel chapters 2 and 9—but only God the Father knows what actual year that will be. Trumpets will sound to herald the coming of the peace maker—and the end of the age. Will Christians be ready? Will their lamps be filled with oil—as in the parable of the Bridegroom? (Matthew 25). That is food for thought—are you ready?

Dear Jesus—we long for and look forward to your return. Help us to be prepared—to have our lamps filled with oil and our wicks trimmed, spiritually.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 30 Prove Yourself

Philippians 2:12-17  So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain. (NASB)

Esther proved herself blameless and innocent—and God was certainly at work in her. I recently watched the Veggie Tales version of Queen Esther. It portrayed Esther as not being willing to go to the palace and kind of whiny, grumbling. Haman demands that the young girls get in his wagon—including Esther—and they’re off to the palace. Esther doesn’t seem too happy once she is in the palace—and makes it into the final selection for the next queen. She sings a wonderful song that her grandmother taught her. That wins the king’s heart—even Haman gives her a thumbs up—and she is chosen as the next queen.

 

How do you think Esther reacted as queen? I think that she was a humble and obedient young lady who stepped up to do the right thing in the right time without grumbling. It took courage. Esther proved herself above reproach and obedient to God. She stood up for what was right and for her people without grumbling. What more can each one of us do? Don’t give in to peer pressure or misdirected controls, like those that Haman imposed on the Jews. Stand up for our heritage, our rights—and hold fast to God’s word. No whining or grumbling.

Dear Lord, continue to help us to obey your word and seek your ways—give us courage like Esther.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 29 Purim – Then and Now

Re-read Esther 9:1-32. Key Verses 18-21 and verse 31: But the Jews who were in Susa assembled on the thirteenth and the fourteenth of the same month, and they rested on the fifteenth day and made it a day of feasting and rejoicing. Therefore the Jews of the rural areas, who live in the rural towns, make the fourteenth day of the month Adar a holiday for rejoicing and feasting and sending portions of food to one another. Then Mordecai recorded these events, and he sent letters to all the Jews who were in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus, both near and far, obliging them to celebrate the fourteenth day of the month Adar, and the fifteenth day of the same month, annually, (NASB).

… to establish these days of Purim at their appointed times, just as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had established for them, and just as they had established for themselves and for their descendants with instructions for their times of fasting and their lamentations.(NASB)

The Jews in Esther’s time were rejoicing for their lives had been spared—and their enemies vanquished.  Now Purim begins with one day of fasting (Adar 13) as established by Mordecai in the Book of Esther, chapter nine. The next Purim celebration starts at sunset on Saturday, February 23^rd and ends at nightfall on February 24^th with a pre-fast the day before. On the evening of Adar 14 the Megilah, or the Book of Esther, is read, and it is repeated again on the morning of Adar 15. Three blessings—Praising the Lord our God are also read. Some families make the reading into a play or skit by having different individuals read the parts of Esther, Haman, Mordecai, etc. When Haman’s name is read the group make loud noises, with noise makers, to drown out his name—like in an old fashioned melodrama. The reading may be followed by a party or Jewish musical concert.

The ritual of sharing a monetary gift with the poor and sending gifts of food to friends was established in Esther 9:22 had continued until today. One of the gifts of food for friends includes a sugar cookie named “Haman’s Hat” (or Haman’s Ears) is a triangular shaped cookie filled traditionally with poppy seed, prune, apricot or other fruit filling. Along with cookies, friends may send cake, nuts, fruit and little bottles of wine.

Purim is a time of carnivals and parades in Israel. This is at the end of the year and soon after the New Year begins and the sober time of Passover. Purim is a time that strangely includes making fun, or mocking, Jewish tradition since it says in the Talmud that we can mock tradition can we fully accept it. That way tradition is not made into an idol and worshiped. Thus people can laugh at what they value, and at their own self-righteousness, and thus paradoxically gain a real sense of self-worth (from The Jewish Holidays by Michael Strassfeld).

 

So what do we learn from Purim? How can we apply it to our lives? Whether Jews or Christians, we need to lighten up, see God’s sense of humor, and take time for joy in our lives. Maybe we shouldn’t wait for Purim?  Isaiah 12:1-6 reminds us of joyously praising God…In that day you will say: I will praise you, O LORD. Although you were angry with me, your anger has turned away and you have comforted me. Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. In that day you will say: Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world. Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of Israel among you. (NIV)    

Dear Jesus—we joyfully praise you.

 

Haman’s Hat or Haman’s Ears

Ingredients

1 stick butter (softened)

3/4 cups sugar
1 large egg, beaten

1 tsp vanilla
2 tsp baking powder
2 cups flour OR 1 cup white all-purpose flour and 1 cup wheat.

FILLING - Traditional fillings are poppy seed, prune or apricot preserves. You can use any fruit butters, jam, or pie fillings.

Directions

1.      Cut butter into sugar. Blend thoroughly. Add egg and vanilla, blend thoroughly. Add flour, 1/2 cup at a time, blending thoroughly between each.

2.      Put the batter in the refrigerator overnight or at least a couple of hours.

3.      Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness and then cut three inch circles with a cookie cutter or a drinking glass.

4.      Put a tablespoon of filling in the middle of each circle. Fold up the sides to make a triangle, overlapping the sides as much as possible so only a little filling shows through the middle.

5.      Bake on parchment paper lined cookie sheets at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes, until golden brown.

Store in a tightly sealed container.
Number of Servings: 24 

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 28 – The Characters Come Alive in Esther

Review the Book of Esther~

The three main characters in this book of Esther were, of course, Esther; her cousin Mordecai; and the king’s second-in-command, Haman. Looking at the characteristics of these three individuals provides us with a review of the story and understanding of God’s dealings with those in Babylon.

It is likely that he was born in Susa, not Jerusalem since this occurs 103 years after Nebuchadnezzar had taken the Jews into captivity. Although he never saw Jerusalem, Mordecai was a devout Jew as shown by his refusal to bow down to anyone but God. Family connections and heritage were important to Jews, including Mordecai. He is an older cousin and guardian of Esther, whose parents died. He was attentive to those around him, dedicated to the nation he lived in and concerned about the welfare of others, like when he heard a couple of the king’s guards plotting to kill the king. He reported that to Queen Esther and saved the king’s life. In addition, later he was persistent in convincing Esther to speak with the king and his plan allowed the Jews to defend themselves so that they were not annihilated. He was humble, yet graciously accepted tribute and honor from the king. God was honored by Mordecai’s devotion and in turn allowed Mordecai to be honored in all of King Ahasuerus’ 127 provinces. Ultimately Mordecai was privileged to be placed as second-in-command to the king.

Esther was an obedient young lady. She was a real people pleaser type person—she did what Mordecai told her to do and then what the eunuch’s at the palace advised. She was more concerned about the welfare of others, i.e. the Jews in the king’s provinces, than about her own welfare or security. She was a careful planner, courageous, courteous and polite, even in the presence of an enemy. In addition to all her wonderful positive characteristics, she was beautiful. Her beautiful features attracted the king and her beautiful heart permitted her to be chosen as Queen. She allowed God to use her and her position for His glory.

Haman was an arrogant power hungry individual who thought of no one but himself. He wanted to honor himself and was humiliated when the king asked him to honor the Jew, Mordecai. He not only hated Mordecai, but all Jews, as his family ancestry was of the Amalekites who descended from Esau and thus were enemies of decedents of Isaac (see Exodus 17:8-16). He was superstitious and cast lots (Pur) to determine when the best time to annihilate the Jews was. He planned to have Mordecai hanged and the Jews killed by all the non-Jews of the Babylonian empire. His plans were thwarted and he was humbly hanged on his own gallows. God allows evil actions to “hang” themselves.

Which characteristics of these people do you have—or which are you most like? Can you change your characteristics to be more pleasing to God? With prayer and with God all things are possible. …for all things are possible with God, Mark 10:27 (NASB). If you want to change, talk it over with God.

Dear Lord, help me to be more like Esther and like you—obedient, loving, and caring.

 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 27 - Wisdom

Esther 10:1-3

Now King Ahasuerus laid a tribute on the land and on the coastlands of the sea. And all the accomplishments of his authority and strength, and the full account of the greatness of Mordecai to which the king advanced him, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Media and Persia? For Mordecai the Jew was second only to King Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews and in favor with his many kinsmen, one who sought the good of his people and one who spoke for the welfare of his whole nation. 

Second only to the king! Like Joseph was second only to the pharaoh in Egypt. See Genesis 41:40-42. "You shall be over my house, and according to your command all my people shall do homage; only in the throne I will be greater than you." Pharaoh said to Joseph, "See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt." Then Pharaoh took off his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph's hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen and put the gold necklace around his neck. God blessed Joseph with discernment and wisdom—and now He blessed Mordecai with wisdom so that the Jews could gain mastery over those who hated them.

Do you ever want wisdom? God has a lot to say about wisdom in 216 verses in the Bible (NASB translation). The Book of Proverbs is especially rich in wisdom advice. Here are a couple of favorites:

For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. - Pro 2:6 How blessed is the man who finds wisdom and the man who gains understanding. - Pro 3:13

The fear (respect) of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. - Pro 9:10 NASB

It is good to seek wisdom and understanding. It will never be a wasted effort. It doesn’t tell us in the Book of Esther that either she or Mordecai sought wisdom, but Mordecai knew scripture—and that he should not bow down to worship a man rather than the true God—so he was blessed with wisdom and understanding. He used his wisdom to help others—seeking the good of his fellow Jews and the welfare of his whole nation.

Solomon was said to have been the wisest man ever—he asked for wisdom rather than riches. God said to Solomon, "Because you had this in mind, and did not ask for riches, wealth or honor, or the life of those who hate you, nor have you even asked for long life, but you have asked for yourself wisdom and knowledge that you may rule My people over whom I have made you king, wisdom and knowledge have been granted to you. And I will give you riches and wealth and honor, such as none of the kings who were before you has possessed nor those who will come after you."  2Chronicles 1:11-12 (NASB).

Lord, we ask that you would give us wisdom and with it give us understanding that we would be able to apply it to our lives, draw others to you, and serve you all the days of our lives.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 26 – Celebrate Victory!

Read Esther 9:20-32  Key Verses: Esther 9:22-23 …because on those days (Adar 14^th & 15^th) the Jews rid themselves of their enemies, and it was a month which was turned for them from sorrow into gladness and from mourning into a holiday; that they should make them days of feasting and rejoicing and sending portions of food to one another and gifts to the poor. Thus the Jews undertook what they had started to do, and what Mordecai had written to them. (NASB)

This was the beginning of the feast day Purim.  Another holiday! A time to celebrate! God had once again rescued and redeemed His chosen people. The name of the holiday came from Haman casting the Pur or lot to see what month and day the Jews would be destroyed. That also became the month and day in a second royal edict that the Jews were allowed to defend themselves, and thus were not annihilated. The next day, Adar 14 in the provinces and Adar 15 in the city of Susa, was a day of celebrating their victory over their enemies. It was a holiday with feasting and rejoicing for all the Jews. To this day, some 2486 years or so later, it is still a Jewish holiday.

Victory over enemies! As I said once before—we don’t have many enemies. Not personal ones anyway. Oh sure, our nation has enemies, but we don’t have enemies in our town, unless you consider dust, heat, or those who break into cars as an enemy. We live sheltered lives—protected by our armed forces, police, and overbearing grandmothers! A 32 year old friend of ours was diagnosed in March with Precursor B-Cell mutation+ Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Now there is an enemy. One that is unseen in the blood—but real. I’ve prayed that God would “deliver him from his enemies, and set him securely on high away from those who might rise up against him” Psalm 59:1. Follow his blog at http://www.thesnyderadventures.blogspot.com/         .

Our enemies can be within us—our attitudes. Oh, the pain that bad attitudes can bring us and cause others to hurt as well. Guard yourself against such attitudes. Like Esther, have a good attitude about doing what is right. Paul provided good advice in my favorite verse, Philippians 4:8, And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise (NLT).  With good thoughts, come good attitudes. How is your thought life today?

Dear Jesus, help us to think good pure thoughts that would give us good attitudes and help us to share you with others. Thank you that you care enough about us to help us in even small ways.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 25 – Enemies Defeated

Read Esther 9:1-19. Key Verses 1-3: Now in the twelfth month (that is, the month Adar), on the thirteenth day when the king's command and edict were about to be executed, on the day when the enemies of the Jews hoped to gain the mastery over them, it was turned to the contrary so that the Jews themselves gained the mastery over those who hated them. The Jews assembled in their cities throughout all the provinces of King Ahasuerus to lay hands on those who sought their harm; and no one could stand before them, for the dread of them had fallen on all the peoples. Even all the princes of the provinces, the satraps, the governors and those who were doing the king's business assisted the Jews, because the dread of Mordecai had fallen on them. Indeed, Mordecai was great in the king's house, and his fame spread throughout all the provinces; for the man Mordecai became greater and greater. (NASB)

Long live Mordecai! He had become second to the king. Read on—the Jews defending themselves killed their adversaries on the 13^th and 14^th of Adar in Susa and on the 13^th in the rest of the provinces with a reported total of 75, 810 men, including Haman’s 10 sons who were hanged on their father’s gallows. People in 127 provinces hated Jews and the Jews hated their enemies. Why were the Jews so hated? This was long before Christ—so the excuse of “because they killed Jesus” cannot be used here. From where does this hated come? Is the root of it in jealousy? Or envy? The Jews claim to be God’s chosen people—and they are. God set them aside with His promise to Abraham (Abram) in Genesis 12: 1-3, Now the LORD said to Abram, “Go forth from your country, And from your relatives And from your father's house, to the land which I will show you; and I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great; and so you shall be a blessing; and I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed."  (NASB) Is the hatred rooted in jealousy? Even in captivity the Jews excelled—look at Daniel and his friends who all became rulers in Babylon. Why? Because they were honest, strong, smart, pure (they chose not to defile themselves as in Daniel 1:8), hard working people who pleased those for whom they worked, and they helped each other—like Daniel appointed his appointed Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego administrators in Babylon (Daniel 2:49). They were not evil people to be feared. Envy? Why didn’t others just follow the Jews example and become hard workers, too? Was it a rivalry between the families of Abraham or the families of Isaac? Hate is a powerful emotion. Like anger, it turns on feelings that defile the person. Paul taught about actions of evil in contrast good in Galatians 5:19-23, Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (NASB) If we let God rule in our lives, then the fruit of the Spirit will come through us, automatically. That doesn’t mean we won’t have enemies—and won’t be hated—but we won’t hate others if we see them as God sees them.

Do you feel hatred, anger, jealousy, or envy now? How are you dealing with those feelings? Paul also wisely taught we should be content: Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am Philippians 4:11 (NASB). That takes some real effort—I know I’ve been there. I just slowly gave all my anger and frustrations to God—and He was gracious enough to take those emotions and feelings away. If He did it for me—He’ll do it for you. Just ask Him.

 Lord Jesus, thank you for helping me deal with the anger in my life. Help those who read this to let go of the anger, hate, jealousy, frustrations and enemies in their lives.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 24 – The Right to Defend Their Lives

Read Esther 8:1-17 Key verses: v 6, v 11 and v 17.

Queen Esther addressed King Ahasuerus, "For how can I endure to see the calamity which will befall my people, and how can I endure to see the destruction of my kindred?" v.6.

In them (letters to the provinces) the king granted the Jews who were in each and every city the right to assemble and to defend their lives, to destroy, to kill and to annihilate the entire army of any people or province which might attack them, including children and women, and to plunder their spoil…v.11.

In each and every province and in each and every city, wherever the king's commandment and his decree arrived, there was gladness and joy for the Jews, a feast and a holiday. And many among the peoples of the land became Jews, for the dread of the Jews had fallen on them. v.17.

Long live the Queen…Long live the Jews. Such a great attitude. Queen Esther always appealed to the king with…if I have found favor with you, then…. She thought of the king first then herself, so King Ahasuerus always granted her wish when he could, but he couldn’t take back or revoke earlier decrees. He could send out new edicts to allow a different course of action. That is just what this announcement did for the Jews so that they could defend themselves. A good choice of action and the Jews celebrated when they heard the news. A feast and a holiday.

Isn’t that the way it is for all of us. When we hear good news we want to throw a party—celebrate—or go out for dinner to a special restaurant. What is your favorite way to celebrate a special occasion? What foods do you like to eat? Let’s throw some steaks on the grill! Or how about some stuffed hamburgers? Each person can make them just the way they like! Serve that up with some potato salad and ice cold beverages and you’ve a meal fit for a king.

Lord, we thank you that we can rejoice, be glad and celebrate! Thanks also for the bounty that you provide for us.

Stuffed Hamburgers
 
1/4 to 1/3 pound of ground beef per person – use about 7% fat or less
Stuffing ingredients:
    Chopped mushrooms, onions, olives, green pepper, chili peppers
    Grated or chopped cheeses: cheddar, swiss, gorgonzola, blue cheese, feta cheese
    Thin sliced: pepperoni and Canadian bacon
Hamburger buns
Additional sliced cheese, thinly sliced tomatoes, leaf lettuce

For each person, divide the burger into two portions, flatten and season as desired with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic or onion powder. Let each person place their desired stuffing ingredients on one half of the meat and top with the other portion of the meat. Press the edges together well to seal.

Grill for about 8 minutes on each side or until meat thermometer reaches 160 degrees. Top with an additional slice of cheese if desired.  Place on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and other condiments as desired. Enjoy!

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 23 – We Have Been Sold

Read Esther 7:1-10 Key verses: 3-4, Then Queen Esther replied, "If I have found favor in your sight, O king, and if it pleases the king, let my life be given me as my petition, and my people as my request; for we have been sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be killed and to be annihilated. Now if we had only been sold as slaves, men and women, I would have remained silent, for the trouble would not be commensurate with the annoyance to the king." (NASB)

“If I have found favor in your sight…let me live.” Queen Esther was merely requesting her life and that of the Jews. The conversation at that banquet only got Haman into deeper trouble. His plot against the Jews backfired and now it was his own head that would be in the noose. When he pleaded for his life he just upset the king more. Too bad for Haman. He was willing to sell the Jews, but didn’t want to give up his own life. The king was mad and it wasn’t until after Haman was hanged that his anger subsided.

Anger is a deep emotion. Even Jesus got angry. Anger occurs 274 times in the New American Standard Bible translation. That’s a lot of anger. We are admonished to BE ANGRY, AND yet DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your anger….in Ephesians 4:26 (NASB). Further instruction in Ephesians tells us to Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Ephesians 4:31 (NASB). Another teaching from Ephesians about another type of anger, exasperation, encourages us as parents. Fathers (and mothers), do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, Ephesians 6:4 (NASB). When we are angry ourselves it is easy to rile others up—so it is a good idea to count to 10 before responding to your anger and not to physically strike out. I have found it helpful to look at what is causing my anger…is it unmet expectations, or just not getting my own way in the relationship or circumstances? Is it small stuff or does it really make a difference?

What is the source of your anger? Jesus experienced righteous indignation in the temple when he discovered that people were using the sacrificial rituals to make money for themselves. It was really deeper than just making a living—it was disrespect for God that was the issue. There are probably few times in our lives that we experience true righteous indignation.

Dear Jesus—we confess that our anger is sometimes out of control. Please help us to see things as you would see them and to be merciful to those we are in relationships with whom we find ourselves angry. Help us to put aside our anger and show compassion instead.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 22 – Honor the Man

Read Esther 6:1-14 Key verse: from v 6…What is to be done for the man whom the king desire to honor?

The king couldn’t sleep—so his book of chronicles was read to him. The king wasn’t alone—he had people there reading to him and he discovered that Mordecai had not been honored for saving the king’s life. As the King Ahasuerus paid tribute to Mordecai, he was seated on one of the king’s horses and paraded through the city square; Haman was humbled. Haman’s mourning of his trouble with his enemy was short-lived since there was another banquet with Queen Esther. Haman was escorted to the palace to enjoy a feast with the king and queen. Would it be the feast to which he was looking forward?

When was the last time you couldn’t sleep? Just a few nights ago I had a couple of hours of insomnia—and longed to see the shooting stars of the Perseid meteor shower. I gazed out my window for a while—but never saw anything. Disappointing, but there are still more nights or early mornings to look for those fleeting meteors. The king had plenty of company while he was awake during the night. No reading of dull books to try to put him to sleep—read the recorded events in the past history of the kingdom. It didn’t put the king to sleep—but spurred him on to honor Mordecai. What hope for that gentleman. What lesson can we glean from this? Are we to keep records of our daily events—that would be journaling and then should we read them when we can’t sleep? Novel idea! There’s more to this story. Haman was feeling sorry for himself. He wanted to be the one honored and instead he had to lead Mordecai’s horse around and proclaim his honor to the city of Susa!  Are we ever humbled by our actions? If we look in our journals, we may see some indication of times like that.

Dear God, help us to seek you when we can’t sleep-that you would refresh our souls and draw us closer to you.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 21 – The Downfall of Haman

Read Esther 6:1~7:10

This is an overview of the whole downfall of the arrogant Haman. We’ll look closer at these two chapters in the next couple of days. Haman was humbled before the city of Susa as the king honored Mordecai. Then at the second banquet Queen Esther makes the plea for her life and that of the Jewish people, and Haman makes of fool of himself. King Ahasuerus becomes angry and Haman’s life is in jeopardy. Look at the big picture. Haman got himself in trouble and his arrogance couldn’t rescue him.

Look at the big picture of your life—are you headed in a good direction? Or are you seeking to please yourself more than God or others? Check your attitude. How do you see yourself? How do you see God working in your life?

It’s good to step back and look at the big picture of how things are going—of how we fit into what is happening in things around us. As a retired person I have goals—but they are not for more than the next twenty years. As a younger person—you could make really long term goals for yourself. Be sure to include God in your goals.

Lord Jesus, thank you for an opportunity to look at our lives and our attitudes. Help us, mold us into who you want us to be that we might serve you better.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 20 – The Arrogance of Haman

Read Esther 5:9-14

Then Haman went out that day glad and pleased of heart; but when Haman saw Mordecai in the king's gate and that he did not stand up or tremble before him, Haman was filled with anger against Mordecai. Haman controlled himself, however, went to his house and sent for his friends and his wife Zeresh. Then Haman recounted to them the glory of his riches, and the number of his sons, and every instance where the king had magnified him and how he had promoted him above the princes and servants of the king. Esther 5:9-11 NASB

What a conceited person Haman was! Boasting before his family and friends about how great he was and how tight he was with the King and Queen. Yet this did not satisfy him—Mordecai still irked him. So he built a huge gallows right in front of his own home to hang Mordecai—such arrogance to think that the King would let him hang whomever he wished. He was so pleased with himself.

We need to watch that we don’t become arrogant over our relationships and positions. Do we honor ourselves more than others? I ask myself those questions. Paul wrote about having an attitude like Christ in Philippians, Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped…. Philippians 2:3-6 (NASB). Attitude is the key. If like Paul said we don’t look out just for our own interests, but consider others—go beyond ourselves—then we’ll have Christ’s attitude in mind. Christ was ultimately obedient—even to death on the cross. Will we ever have to be that obedient? Who knows—only God. There have been many martyrs down through the ages and we have no promises that we won’t have to go through hard times or even death for Christ. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Romans 8:35 (NASB).  Don’t let anything separate you from your love of God.  In Jesus parable of the sower and the seeds found in Mark it says, …In a similar way these are the ones on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; and they have no firm root in themselves, but are only temporary; then, when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately they fall away. Mark 4:16-17 (NASB). So don’t let bad times or persecution get to you—remain strong in the Lord. Are you trying to spend time everyday reading God’s word and praying to understand it?

Lord Jesus, help us to understand your word and to apply it to our lives every day that we would have a good attitude towards you and others.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 19 – A Banquet for the King

Read Esther 5:1-8. Key Verse: v. 4 Esther said, "If it pleases the king, may the king and Haman come this day to the banquet that I have prepared for him." (NASB)

Esther obtained favor in the King’s sight. What a man—swayed by just the beauty of his uninvited queen! Or maybe the prayers of all those Jews in Susa were answered? Yes. That was what made it possible for Esther to come before King Ahasuerus. God surely gave Esther the idea for a banquet. The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach…and King Ahasuerus was no different. He wanted Haman to be brought quickly so that the banquet could begin. And as they drank their wine, Ahasuerus is such a lover of his beverages, he asked Esther what she desired. Whether she lost her nerve to confront Haman that evening or actually planned to have two banquets it doesn’t matter…she set the plan in motion to usurp Haman’s agenda. Tomorrow is always a better day.

Banquets are such special occasions. Good food and pleasant conversations. What do you suppose Esther would have served at these banquets? This occurred in the month of Nisan (see Esther 3:7)at the time of barley and flax harvest, so it is there would have been lots of fresh fruits and vegetables available, too. Since she was a Jew, it is not likely that Esther would have served any pork dishes, or fish since they were not on a river or seaport. For the king, he could have anything he wished imported. Perhaps the main dish would have been chicken, goat, lamb or beef with a rich sauce. Maybe lamb kabobs? And for dessert—fresh pastries or date and walnut cookies? What more could  king ask?

Lord, inspire us to cook foods worthy of a king—worthy of You and of our family. This is such a bountiful time of the year with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Thank you for the variety of produce you create and provide for us.

Middle East Lamb Kabobs

Ingredients:

2 lbs lamb fillet, cut into 1 inch cubes
2 green peppers
2 pints cherry tomatoes
2 red onions
 
For the marinade:
2 tablespoons lemon juice
¼ tsp grated lemon rind
1/2 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon turmeric (or more if desired, depending on how spicy you desire)
Salt and pepper to taste
pinch of ground red pepper or cayenne

Preparation:

Up to 24 hours prior to grilling, combine marinade ingredients and pour into sealable plastic bag or covered large flat glass dish. Place lamb cubes in marinade and refrigerate until ready to grill. Be sure all pieces of lamb are well coated.

To  prepare vegetables, wash, dry  and cut green peppers and onions into 1 inch chunks. Set aside.

Lightly spray cooking oil onto skewers and grill to prevent sticking. Place lamb and vegetables on skewers. Grill lamb kebabs for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until done as desired.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 18 – If I Perish, I Perish

Esther 4:15-17

Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai, "Go, assemble all the Jews who are found in Susa, and fast for me; do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maidens also will fast in the same way. And thus I will go in to the king, which is not according to the law; and if I perish, I perish." So Mordecai went away and did just as Esther had commanded him.

Fast and pray. Don’t eat or drink anything for three days. That is what the Jews of Susa, including Esther and her maids, were going to do. When was the last time you went without food for three days—have you ever gone without food AND water for more than 24 hours? Most fasts are only fasts from food, or maybe food and water, but last only sunrise to sunset or only 24 hours. Our bodies go into a deprivation mode if we fast for extended periods of time. A short fast, like 24-48 hours is actually good for us if we are in good health. In this case the purpose of the fast was to focus on prayer during the fast. Prayer that would assure that Queen Esther would be acceptable in approaching the King with her request. As they were fasting they were pleading with God, asking for His mercy for Queen Esther and deliverance from Haman’s plot to obliterate the Jews. That is unstated in the book of Esther—but understood since prayer and fasting go together we know that was their desire. 

There are a couple of scriptures that go along with Esther’s plea. One is found in God’s guidance to Solomon, 1 Chronicles 7:14…(if) My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (NASB) The Jews at this point in Esther’s story weren’t being wicked, but they were seeking God’s intervention and fasting can be a humbling experience. In the book of Joel, written before Esther’s time, it says, "Yet even now," declares the LORD, "Return to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, weeping and mourning…Joel 1:12 NASB. Mordecai and all the Jews were following the Lord’s way…with fasting, weeping and mourning.

What do you do to get the Lord’s attention? Will you consider fasting and praying the next time that you earnestly seek the Lord? Let God know the desires of your heart.

Lord, we know that we can’t manipulate you into doing our will, but that we need to seek Your will and Your way in our lives. Help us to know You more deeply and please hear our prayers just as You heard those of Esther, Mordecai and the other Jews in Babylon.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 17 – Mordecai’s Request

Esther 4:1-14
Read Esther 4:1-14. Key verse: v14. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place and you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this? (NASB)

Mordecai was in mourning because of Haman’s plan to destroy the Jews was set in place. All the Jews in King Ahasuerus’ 127 provinces were mourning, weeping and fasting. Through an attendant of the King’s, Queen Esther communicated with Mordecai and she learned of Haman’s plan. Mordecai wanted her to appeal to the King—but Esther knew that she could risk her life by appearing before the King uninvited. Of course Mordecai wisely told her that just because she was in the King’s palace didn’t give her any protection since she was a Jew. Perhaps she was in the palace as queen for just such a time as this.

I’ve had friends quote that …for such a time as this…several times. We are where we are for a purpose, a reason. Whether it is waiting in line at the grocery checkout or chatting with our beautician, it is not just a coincidence that other people are there. We must use our time wisely to share Jesus with others. 1 Peter 3:15 tells us…but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence…(NASB). Be ready. Explain your hope. The hope of our salvation in Jesus—our anticipation of a joyous eternal life that began when we accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior. Mordecai’s hope was in deliverance from Haman’s plan—and he needed Esther’s help to make that happen.

Lord, hear our prayers and deliver us from evil—just as You prayed to our Heavenly Father.

Our Father who is in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.

Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 NASB)

 © 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 16 – Haman’s Power

Esther 3:1-15

Read Esther 3:1-15. Key Verse, v2. All the king's servants who were at the king's gate bowed down and paid homage to Haman; for so the king had commanded concerning him. But Mordecai neither bowed down nor paid homage. (NASB)

Power to the king’s man, Haman. That’s what he wanted: to be honored like the king. Mordecai was following God’s command—to worship no other gods (Exodus 20:2-3; Deuteronomy 6:3-5). That meant that he wouldn’t bow down to any man. Rage—Haman was so conceited and self-centered that he was fuming mad that he wasn’t being paid homage. He didn’t want to just destroy Mordecai—but all the Jews. This happened in the reign of the twelfth year for King Ahasuerus and the fourth year for Queen Esther. Haman easily convinced the King that since “these people” were different and didn’t observe the King’s laws they should be destroyed. He would pay for it to happen. The King commanded it to be—and Haman sends out the edict to annihilate all the Jews—old, young women and children in the twelfth month. Little did the king know that some of his very household were “these people”—Jews.

Have no other gods before me. Do you have other gods? Do you or do I “bow” down to someone or something besides our God? We so easily honor money, possessions, government officials, movie stars and sports or Olympic heroes. Are we honoring them as gods or instead of God? Consider your devotion and dedication to other people and things.

Lord, I praise you for who you are. God. My God.

Happy Birthday, Michelle! May God continue to bless you as you seek and serve Him.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 15 – Mordecai to the Rescue

Esther 2:21-23

In those days, while Mordecai was sitting at the king's gate, Bigthan and Teresh, two of the king's officials from those who guarded the door, became angry and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus. But the plot became known to Mordecai and he told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai's name. Now when the plot was investigated and found to be so, they were both hanged on a gallows; and it was written in the Book of the Chronicles in the king's presence. (NASB)

The plot against the king was thwarted due to Mordecai’s attentiveness to the king’s angry guards and his loyalty to Queen Esther. He may have feared that if something happened to the king, Esther would be in danger, too. He was still looking out for her welfare. This was recorded in the king’s logbook, which as we’ll see later was provincial. Remember—with God there is no such thing as coincidence. God has a plan.

Where do you fit into God’s plan? Are you obedient to follow His ways and devoted to Him? Trust and obey. Trust meaning to have faith and confidence is found in several books of the Bible. One of the best known is Proverbs 3:5-6, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. (NASB) In Isaiah 26:4 it says, Trust in the Lord forever, for in GOD the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock (NASB). He is a rock of refuge. He offers protection for us, just as He did for Esther, and her husband King Ahasuerus. What a comforting thought in these days of uncertainty. Trust in God that although there may be plots against leaders and nations—that those who trust in the Lord can be assured of His protection.

Lord—Thank you for being our Rock—our strength, help and refuge. We lean on you for there are times when we are just plain tired and we need to feel secure in your strength, help and enduring love.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 14 – Crown Her the Queen

Read Esther 2:1-20

Key verse – Verse 20 “…for Esther did what Mordecai told her as she had done when under his care.”

It is important to note that Esther was obedient to her cousin, Mordecai. He had raised her since her parents died—and she did what he told her. When she was taken to the King’s palace Mordecai told her not to reveal that she was a Jew. He was perhaps fearful for her life as Jews were not respected in Babylon. Obedience is a key word here and throughout the Bible.

Esther was obedient and honored Mordecai as her own parents (Exodus 20:12). Although it had been generations since the Jews deportation from Jerusalem (605 BC) and captivity in Babylon some still followed their ancestors’ ways, and that included Mordecai and Esther.  Esther was obedient—not demanding—in the harem of the king. This gained her favor with those in charge of her.

Obedience is the key word to feast on today. Children are to obey their parents, as it is written in Ephesians 6:1-3. We are to be obedient to God in prayer and as Esther was obedient to the guidance of Mordecai—we need to be obedient to God’s will and His way. The only way to know what it is He expects from us is to dayly be reading His Word. So…seek first God and His Kingdom…Matthew 6:33.

Lord-Help us to make choices today that lead us in obedience to you.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 13 Drunken King Demands

Esther 1:1-22

Now it took place in the days of Ahasuerus, the Ahasuerus who reigned from India to Ethiopia over 127 provinces,in those days as King Ahasuerus sat on his royal throne which was at the citadel in Susa,in the third year of his reign he gave a banquet for all his princes and attendants, the army officers of Persia and Media, the nobles and the princes of his provinces being in his presence.  And he displayed the riches of his royal glory and the splendor of his great majesty for many days, 180 days. When these days were completed, the king gave a banquet lasting seven days for all the people who were present at the citadel in Susa, from the greatest to the least, in the court of the garden of the king's palace.There were hangings of fine white and violet linen held by cords of fine purple linen on silver rings and marble columns, and couches of gold and silver on a mosaic pavement of porphyry, marble, mother-of-pearl and precious stones. Drinks were served in golden vessels of various kinds, and the royal wine was plentiful according to the king's bounty. The drinking was done according to the law, there was no compulsion, for so the king had given orders to each official of his household that he should do according to the desires of each person. Queen Vashti also gave a banquet for the women in the palace which belonged to King Ahasuerus. On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, Abagtha, Zethar and Carkas, the seven eunuchs who served in the presence of King Ahasuerus, to bring Queen Vashti before the king with her royal crown in order to display her beauty to the people and the princes, for she was beautiful. But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king's command delivered by the eunuchs. Then the king became very angry and his wrath burned within him. Then the king said to the wise men who understood the times--for it was the custom of the king so to speak before all who knew law and justice and were close to him: Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media who had access to the king's presence and sat in the first place in the kingdom--According to law, what is to be done with Queen Vashti, because she did not obey the command of King Ahasuerus delivered by the eunuchs? In the presence of the king and the princes, Memucan said, "Queen Vashti has wronged not only the king but also all the princes and all the peoples who are in all the provinces of King Ahasuerus.  For the queen's conduct will become known to all the women causing them to look with contempt on their husbands by saying, King Ahasuerus commanded Queen Vashti to be brought in to his presence, but she did not come. This day the ladies of Persia and Media who have heard of the queen's conduct will speak in the same way to all the king's princes, and there will be plenty of contempt and anger.  If it pleases the king, let a royal edict be issued by him and let it be written in the laws of Persia and Media so that it cannot be repealed, that Vashti may no longer come into the presence of King Ahasuerus, and let the king give her royal position to another who is more worthy than she. When the king's edict which he will make is heard throughout all his kingdom, great as it is, then all women will give honor to their husbands, great and small. This word pleased the king and the princes, and the king did as Memucan proposed. So he sent letters to all the king's provinces, to each province according to its script and to every people according to their language, that every man should be the master in his own house and the one who speaks in the language of his own people.

Read Esther 1:1-22

Key verses – v. 18-20 This day the ladies of Persia and Media who have heard of the queen's conduct will speak in the same way to all the king's princes, and there will be plenty of contempt and anger.  If it pleases the king, let a royal edict be issued by him and let it be written in the laws of Persia and Media so that it cannot be repealed, that Vashti may no longer come into the presence of King Ahasuerus, and let the king give her royal position to another who is more worthy than she. When the king's edict which he will make is heard throughout all his kingdom, great as it is, then all women will give honor to their husbands, great and small

The king and his drunken friends didn’t please Queen Vashti, nor did she please them. Customs being what they were this changed the course of Hebrew history. Oh yes- women will follow the example of their female royal leaders. The “wise” men advising King Ahasuerus were very astute in their recommendation to the king. Verse 22 provides information as to the edict that the king sent to all his provinces. “…that each man should be the master of his own house….” Similar teaching was given by Paul in Ephesians 5:22-25,  28-30. Paul goes beyond King Ahasuerus by giving specific instructions for the husband on loving his wife. Love and respect are a joint effort in a healthy marriage relationship. You can’t have one without the other. King Ahasuerus was selfishly only concerne about getting respect from his wife—but he certainly wasn’t showing respect for Queen Vashti. Couldn’t his subjects see that? In that day and time women obviously even the Queen, were considered second rate citizens or possessions. Such a sad commentary on life before Christ. Jesus Christ had a deep respect for women, as he often showed. Consider his example with Mary and Martha at the death of their brother, Lazarus; and the Samaritan woman at the well. Women today often demand respect or flaunt their disregard for the need of respect. Deep within our hearts and soul we all seek love and respect.

Dr. Emerson Eggerichs wrote about the male’s need for respect and the female’s need for love. These are basic human need—that cross cultural lines. Do you recognize your own need for love and respect—and how about the needs of those around you—including your spouse, significant other, children, grandchildren and friends? We are supposed to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39)—so we need to start with loving ourselves.

Lord Jesus, help us to make good decisions, to be pleasing and loving in your sight for you are a King worthy of our attention.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

.

August 12 Esther

 Introduction

The story of Esther occurs during the reign of King Ahasuerus (Hebrew form of his name) who was also known as King Xerxes I (Greek form). This king ruled from 486 to 465 BC in Babylon during the Meso-Persian Empire. He actually ruled a large part of the known world, from India to Ethiopia with his palace is Susa, 150 miles north of the Persian Gulf. Esther was a Jewish orphan living in Susa with her cousin Mordecai. 

The author of this book is an unknown Jew who must have been well acquainted with Esther and Mordecai to have known the details of the story. The best known verse and portion frequently quoted from this book is Esther 4:14, …for such a time as this…. You may be where you are and have influence with particular people for just such a time as this also.

There is no such thing as a coincidence. God has a plan and hopefully you know Him and are called to be part of His family…for such a time as this. Let’s spend the next couple of weeks looking at Esther’s life, the feast that she had prepared—and the continual feast that we have in God’s word. Blessings…as we study God’s Word together.

Lord Jesus—help us to see your plan for our lives and to respond as Esther did in obedience.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 11 – Review of 40 days with Daniel

Daniel in Review

The key verse was "It is He (God) who reveals the profound and hidden things; He knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with Him.” Daniel 2:22 (NASB) My hope for you is that God has revealed more of Himself to you through this study of Daniel and that you are steadfastly set in your loyalty to Christ. Feasting on His Word is such a privilege.

So, what did we learn from this study of Daniel?

·         Daniel was a man of integrity—an example to all, including us.

·         The interpretation of dreams was God ordained—not something that Daniel could do on his own.

·         God is honored by the way we love Him.

·         Our greatest purpose in life is to glorify God.

·         Daniel’s predictions of 70 weeks (years) of captivity in Babylon was fulfilled by God.

·         Angels are fighting demons in realms we cannot see.

·         Daniel made predictions about kings to the North and South of Israel—and those came true.

·         We can trust God that other predictions that Daniel made will come true in the future, as part of God’s plan.
·          Although exiled by God, the Hebrew people were not abandoned by God.
·         It has been promised, by God, that all people who have died will rise again, to eternal life with Jesus Christ in heaven or to eternal suffering in hell. Each one has to make their own decision on their destination.

Lord Jesus~We honor you with our time spent in your word—and by sharing you with others. We look forward to feasting with you at the banquet table in heaven.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

August 10 – End of Time

Daniel 12:1-13

That's when Michael, the great angel-prince, champion of your people, will step in. It will be a time of trouble, the worst trouble the world has ever seen. But your people will be saved from the trouble, every last one found written in the Book. Many who have been long dead and buried will wake up, some to eternal life, others to eternal shame. Men and women who have lived wisely and well will shine brilliantly, like the cloudless, star-strewn night skies. And those who put others on the right path to life will glow like stars forever. This is a confidential report, Daniel, for your eyes and ears only. Keep it secret. Put the book under lock and key until the end. In the interim there is going to be a lot of frantic running around, trying to figure out what's going on.

As I, Daniel, took all this in, two figures appeared, one standing on this bank of the river and one on the other bank. One of them asked a third man who was dressed in linen and who straddled the river, 'How long is this astonishing story to go on?' The man dressed in linen, who straddled the river, raised both hands to the skies. I heard him solemnly swear by the Eternal One that it would be a time, two times, and half a time, that when the oppressor of the holy people was brought down the story would be complete.

I heard all this plainly enough, but I didn't understand it. So I asked, 'Master, can you explain this to me?' Go on about your business, Daniel,' he said. 'The message is confidential and under lock and key until the end, until things are about to be wrapped up. The populace will be washed clean and made like new. But the wicked will just keep on being wicked, without a clue about what is happening. Those who live wisely and well will understand what's going on.' From the time that the daily worship is banished from the Temple and the obscene desecration is set up in its place, there will be 1,290 days. Blessed are those who patiently make it through the 1,335 days. And you? Go about your business without fretting or worrying. Relax. When it's all over, you will be on your feet to receive your reward.

Is your name in The Book? Is Jesus your Savior?—then your name is in The Book. When the bad times come—don’t worry—your name is in the book. You’ll be rescued. And if you’ve died before that happens…you’ll be raised from the dead to everlasting life. Everyone whose name is in The Book will be rescued, too. What a comforting thought. Share Jesus with others, so their names can be written down along with yours. Those whose names are not written down will suffer an everlasting disgrace.  

No worrying! Go about your business. That is the advice given to Daniel—and it is still good advice for us. Matthew 24:36 again assures us: But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. NASB. We just have to trust the Lord God to give us knowledge and wisdom as we need it and not to expect to understand just when His end time is set to happen until He reveals it to us. Relax, if your name is written in the book.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, only you know when this end time will happen and I rest in your loving care—knowing that you do care and that you don’t want us to worry. The battle belongs to you—you are worthy. I trust you, thank you, and praise you for your plan for all eternity.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Scripture from The Message, except where noted.

August 9 – Future Events – the Antichrist

Daniel 11: 36-45

Then the king will do as he pleases, and he will exalt and magnify himself above every god and will speak monstrous things against the God of gods; and he will prosper until the indignation is finished, for that which is decreed will be done. But instead he will honor a god of fortresses, a god whom his fathers did not know; he will honor him with gold, silver, costly stones and treasures. He will take action against the strongest of fortresses with the help of a foreign god; he will give great honor to those who acknowledge him and will cause them to rule over the many, and will parcel out land for a price.

At the end time the king of the South will collide with him, and the king of the North will storm against him with chariots, with horsemen and with many ships; and he will enter countries, overflow them and pass through. He will also enter the Beautiful Land, and many countries will fall; but these will be rescued out of his hand: Edom, Moab and the foremost of the sons of Ammon. Then he will stretch out his hand against other countries, and the land of Egypt will not escape. But he will gain control over the hidden treasures of gold and silver and over all the precious things of Egypt; and Libyans and Ethiopians will follow at his heels. But rumors from the East and from the North will disturb him, and he will go forth with great wrath to destroy and annihilate many. He will pitch the tents of his royal pavilion between the seas and the beautiful Holy Mountain; yet he will come to his end, and no one will help him. (NASB)

The Antichrist! It is apparent that this part of Daniel’s dream, his prophecy, has not happened yet. Like parts of Daniel’s earlier dream, it is a detailed prophecy. This king arrogantly honors and exalts himself as a god—and we know that many earlier theologians and scholars, even as early as 1600 years ago, viewed this character as the antichrist. He is disrespectful of God, self-centered, cruel and greedy. In the end God wins—the battle belongs to the Lord.

This is a very confusing and controversial issue—the end times including the Tribulation are written in such a way that we have to dig to understand them. God wants us to be prepared. We need to not fear man—but to fear and respect God.

Lord, prepare our hearts and minds that we would understand you and your Word more clearly. Knowing you is more valuable than any worldly goods and we seek to live in a way that pleases you—so that one day we may feast at your table.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Scripture from The Message, except where noted.

August 8 – Wickedness

Daniel 11:21-35 

His place will be taken by a reject, a man spurned and passed over for advancement. He'll surprise everyone, seemingly coming out of nowhere, and will seize the kingdom. He'll come in like a steamroller, flattening the opposition. Even the Prince of the Covenant will be crushed. After negotiating a cease-fire, he'll betray its terms. With a few henchmen, he'll take total control. Arbitrarily and impulsively, he'll invade the richest provinces. He'll surpass all his ancestors, near and distant, in his rape of the country, grabbing and looting, living with his cronies in corrupt and lavish luxury. He will make plans against the fortress cities, but they'll turn out to be shortsighted. He'll get a great army together, all charged up to fight the king of the south. The king of the south in response will get his army—an even greater army—in place, ready to fight. But he won't be able to sustain that intensity for long because of the treacherous intrigue in his own ranks, his court having been honeycombed with vicious plots. His army will be smashed, the battlefield filled with corpses. The two kings, each with evil designs on the other, will sit at the conference table and trade lies. Nothing will come of the treaty, which is nothing but a tissue of lies anyway. But that's not the end of it. There's more to this story.

The king of the north will go home loaded down with plunder, but his mind will be set on destroying the holy covenant as he passes through the country on his way home. One year later he will mount a fresh invasion of the south. But the second invasion won't compare to the first. When the Roman ships arrive, he will turn tail and go back home. But as he passes through the country, he will be filled with anger at the holy covenant. He will take up with all those who betray the holy covenant, favoring them. The bodyguards surrounding him will march in and desecrate the Sanctuary and citadel. They'll throw out the daily worship and set up in its place the obscene sacrilege. The king of the north will play up to those who betray the holy covenant, corrupting them even further with his seductive talk, but those who stay courageously loyal to their God will take a strong stand.

Those who keep their heads on straight will teach the crowds right from wrong by their example. They'll be put to severe testing for a season: some killed, some burned, some exiled, some robbed. When the testing is intense, they'll get some help, but not much. Many of the helpers will be halfhearted at best. The testing will refine, cleanse, and purify those who keep their heads on straight and stay true, for there is still more to come.

Historically Antiochus Epiphanes was one of the most wicked men who ever lived. Israel seems to be plagued throughout history with wicked people attacking or destroying their people, land or Temple.

The Bible has over 300 verses concerning “wicked”. A couple that are comforting are promises that were given to David and then to the people of Judah.  I will also appoint a place for My people Israel and will plant them, that they may live in their own place and not be disturbed again, nor will the wicked afflict them any more as formerly... 2 Samuel 7:10 NASB. Behold, on the mountains the feet of him who brings good news, who announces peace! Celebrate your feasts, O Judah; Pay your vows. For never again will the wicked one pass through you; he is cut off completely, Nahum 1:15 NASB. That was a promise for the Israelites back in about 663-612 BC concerning Nineveh’s wickedness. For a day now that the wicked would be cut off again would be a wonderful day.  

Paul wrote in Ephesians concerning behavior of Christians. Letting go of bitterness and wrath results in kindness, as opposed to wickedness. That should be a goal for us. Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:29-32 NASB. Do you find yourself filled with wrath or are you able to put it aside? A motto of mine is the common phrase, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.”  And most of the things that get under my skin are “small stuff”—just gotta let those go, including wickedness, and move on.

 Lord Jesus, help us today to be tender-hearted, to fill our lives with forgiveness and to let our words be loving. Let us not sweat the small stuff. Let’s feast on good words and good actions.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Scripture from The Message, except where noted.