The Pulpit Commentary on Esther 9:28

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

A holy memorial.

Memory is a Divine gift, to be used for the glory of the Giver. Every individual has his memories; for his past life has been marked by events important to himself, and worthy of being now and again recalled to awaken gratitude, humility, confidence. Every family has its memories; and domestic anniversaries may be observed with advantage, especially to the young. Every nation has its memories—of great reigns, great deliverances, great conquests, etc. Every religion has its memories—of its founder, its fundamental facts, its triumphs. The Jews had reason to remember Purim.

I. WHAT IS SPECIALLY WORTHY TO BE REMEMBERED? Our deliverances. God's mercies.

II. WHY SHOULD SUCH THINGS BE REMEMBERED? To encourage us to the exercise of devout gratitude. To foster our trust and faith in him whose mercies we call to mind. To honour God. "Forget not all his benefits."

III. How SHOULD HOLY MEMORIALS BE OBSERVED?

1. With sacrifices of praise. "Let us exalt his name together." "The Lord bath done great things for us, whereof we are glad."

2. With gatherings of fellowship. Where mercies have been experienced in common they should be acknowledged in common. There is something inspiring and elevating in the celebration, by a multitude, of a great event, a signal mercy. So with the observance of the Lord's Supper.

3. With tokens of practical kindness. Festivals are holy in proportion as those who take part in them are unselfish, disinterested, and kind.

4. With especial reference to the young. In youth public observances impress themselves upon the memory. The Jews took pains to instruct their children in the meaning of the passover and the other national festivals. Thus the perpetuity of the memorial is secured. We should celebrate God's loving-kindness, and "tell it to the generation following."

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