As we look further into the
décor and furnishings of the palace where Ahasuerus is having his
second feast, we learn more about him as well. One hundred and eighty
days of feasting is quite the generous spirit from the man who is the
ruler of one hundred and twenty-seven provinces, and this latest
party extends to those both small and great who were in the palace of
Shushan. In chapter one and verse seven we learn more about some of
the activities given at this extravagant affair. We read:
And they gave [them]
drink in vessels of gold, (the vessels being diverse one from
another,) and royal wine in abundance, according to the state of the
king.
The
scripture begins, “And they gave them drink in vessels of
gold, (the vessels being diverse one from another,)...”
Ahasuerus brought out the finest drinking glasses for his guests.
Some believe these possibly to be vessels that were taken from the
temple of Israel, but they were not brandished as in Belshazzar’s
feast mentioned in the book of Daniel. Nonetheless, wherever they
came from, they were certainly the best of the supply. Notice too
that they were “diverse” or different from one another. The
variety of chalices and goblets must have been quite the
conversational pieces as the guest were drinking and enjoying
themselves.
The verse continues, “and
royal wine in abundance, according to the state of the king.”
There was no skimping on the best drink, for the “royal wine” or
the “wine fit for a king” was poured. This opulent and gracious
display toward his guests shows us the giving nature of Ahasuerus.
Ahasuerus spared no expense for entertaining his guests, and from the
phrase “according to the state of the king” we ascertain
that he gave no special law limiting their indulgence. He desired
that they be satisfied, pleased, and filled with abundance. He was a
hospitable and accommodating ruler who gave abundantly to his people.
Have we ever been so
gracious toward others as Ahasuerus? Have we ever attempted to hold a
feast for people both “small and great” and given them our best?
We often think that we must have great means to share so graciously,
but if we will think about it for a while, we may find that we can
use Ahasuerus' example as inspiration for blessing others with that
which the Lord has provided for us. May the Lord bless us with His
thoughts and graciousness as we meditate upon this today.
Next time we will see just how abundant the drinking was among the
guest, so read ahead, and let us join together then.
Until
tomorrow...there is more...
Look for
the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation
to Generation” in all major
bookstore
sites, www.amazon.com ; www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to
e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore
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