ROYAL GENEROSITY
And the king gave a great banquet, Esther’s banquet, for all his nobles and officials. He proclaimed a holiday throughout the provinces and distributed gifts with royal liberality. Esther 2:18
The king was in a great mood. He was in love and true love celebrates. History records that he gave gifts throughout the kingdom ‘according to his riches’. He granted a release to the provinces; criminals received a pardon and there was a remittance of overdue taxes for the general population. Royal generosity! He had been waiting for Esther and when he found her, she was everything he had wanted.
When God found me, when I responded to His invitation to know Him intimately, He also celebrated. He crowned my head, made me an heir to His kingdom, and called me His daughter. He threw a party in heaven and the invitation might have read, “Come and help me celebrate. My lost child has come home!” Now, he also gives to me ‘according to His riches.’ My God shall supply all your needs, according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
Though I live in desperate need of love, peace, mercy, and daily grace, and though I might be satisfied with the crumbs He could offer, He chooses not to be stingy. He gives out of His riches. That’s what love does.
* He offers forgiveness for sins I’ve repented of time and time again. He does not deliberate and then decide that I’ve used up all my token apologies.
* He extends second chances, even if I rebelled, even if it was premeditated.
* When He opens a door that was once closed, I discover that there are many open doors on the other side. God maximizes every opportunity.
I want to love like my Father. May my life today reflect that I live in celebration of His love. May others’ experience me as one with a gracious and generous spirit, giving more than expected.
You pardoned me, though I was deserved death. You erased my debts by paying for them with Your Son’s life. Every gift you give is so much more than I ever thought it would be. I celebrate You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Originally published Tuesday, 02 April 2019.
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