The Feast of Purim

Thursday, March 8 and Friday, March 9 of 2012 will be the days for the celebration of the Feast of Purim.  Jewish people began celebrating Purim after God's deliverance from Haman and the Persians in the book of Esther.  Haman had plotted the genocide of the Jewish people, but God delivered them and protected them from the Persians.

I think it's fitting to remember this story as once again the Jewish people are facing a threat of genocide from the Persians.  Iran, as you may know, is the modern day name for the nation of Persia.  Once again the Jewish people of the nation of Israel face the threat of destruction.  If Iran is allowed to develop a nuclear weapon, their first target will be Israel.  They are not developing a nuclear weapon to use as a deterrent, they are building one to eliminate "the little Satan," Israel.

I think it's fitting that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave President Obama a scroll containing the book of Esther in their recent meeting.  It was a fine way to send the message that Israel will not sit by while nations threaten the destruction of Israel.  Our president needs to understand the seriousness of the threat from Iran.  He needs to understand their hatred of the Jews, a hatred that will not be negated by negotiations or sanctions.

Over the days of the feast of Purim, I encourage all Believers to take some additional time to pray for the Israel/Iran situation.