In “A Joel 2 Heart, Part 1,” we witnessed the wonder of ancient Hebrew scriptures so fresh and alive in Mordecai and Esther that they could both 1) recognize the times and circumstances for what they were, and 2) quickly follow through with a response toward the LORD that would rightly approach Him as both Deliverer and true King. Their lives were literally saved by their knowledge and response, along with an entire nation—no small feat by anyone’s estimation.

It takes years of careful study and meditation to become thus equipped, but it’s a journey well worth the effort…so let’s begin now. Let’s allow Mordecai and Esther to instruct us and exhort us in an understanding that to them came so naturally, an understanding rooted in the Hebrew language and scriptures.

For a full run-down of the differences between the way we typically think as “modern” western-world believers and the way the Hebrews who wrote the Bible would have thought, please see the article The Greek vs. The Hebrew Mind. For our purposes now, however, we will keep everything very simple as we explore the instructions of Joel 2:12-13 and 17 from the Hebraic perspective in which they were written. Read the rest of this entry »

While there are many positions we naturally desire to take in view of The Day of the LORD, there is only one fitting posture (according to the One who wrote the Book):

“ Now, therefore,” says the LORD, “ Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.” So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm…Let the priests, who minister to the LORD, weep between the porch and the altar; let them say, “Spare Your people, O LORD, and do not give Your heritage to reproach, that the nations should rule over them. Why should they say among the peoples, ‘ Where is their God?’” Joel 2:12-13, 17

Let’s be honest—this is not our cultural norm. In fact, there is nothing at all normal about truly doing what Joel 2:12-13 and 17 says, especially in the context of our daily practices and routines. Which precisely becomes the point.

The Day of the LORD is a time unlike any other, and ought to be approached unlike any other. If you will take a moment to read Esther chapters 3 and 4, we will find the perfect illustration.

The setting is the capital city, Susa. The major players in the unfolding drama include the king; newly appointed and very wicked viceroy Haman; the righteous scribe Mordecai; and Mordecai’s niece, Queen Esther. Read the rest of this entry »