Release and gifts.
Esther's marriage was celebrated in a manner intended and fitted to impress the nation with a sense of the favour and honour with which she was regarded by the "great king." There was a great feast at Susa, that the metropolis might have an opportunity of honouring the new queen. And throughout the kingdom there took place, according to the command of Ahasuerus, such celebrations and observances as were in accordance with Oriental customs. Particularly are mentioned the releases or remissions—it may be presumed from taxation or military service; and the gifts—probably of robes, and in some cases of jewels. We may regard these tokens of kingly favour as emblematic of the blessings provided by Divine mercy in the gospel of Christ for the sinful and needy children of men.
I. The heavenly King favours us, sinners and spiritual bondsmen, with RELEASE AND REMISSION.
1. From the service of Satan.
2. From the thraldom and punishment of sin.
3. By the redemption of his Son, Jesus Christ.
II. The heavenly King bestows upon us, his subjects, NUMEROUS AND PRICELESS GIFTS.
1. As the condition and means of all other benefactions regard him who is "the unspeakable Gift."
2. The gift of the Holy Ghost.
3. The gift of eternal life.
4. Remember that all the bounties of Divine providence come to us as proofs of the Father's love, and through the mediation of Christ.
Practical lessons:—
1. Spiritual liberty is provided and offered; the prison doors are opened. Go ye free.
2. Spiritual bounty is at your disposal; "all things are yours." Take and rejoice in the manifold gifts of God.