Esther 8:17 - Homiletics

A good day.

This expression is probably figurative. The time of relief, and thanksgiving, and confidence, and hope is viewed as a day having a character of its own. And no wonder that, so viewed, it should be called here "a good day."

I. IT WAS GOOD IN ITS RETROSPECT . A day of evil had been dreaded and looked forward to with justice, and it had been converted into a day of peace. A day of Divine interposition summoned all to admire the unexpected interposition of Divine providence which had taken place.

II. IT WAS GOOD IN ITS REALISATION . It was a good day for the rescued and saved, for the agents who had effected the deliverance, for the people among whom they dwelt, and even for the king, whose reign and reputation were saved from a stain both black and bloody.

III. IT WAS GOOD IN ITS ANTICIPATION . Some months were yet to elapse before all danger was past. Yet, in the changed prospect, how could the Jews do other than give thanks, rejoice, and triumph? Let this "good day" serve to us as an emblem of the day of Divine visitation and human privilege. "Now is the accepted time; now is the day of salvation. "