CHRISTMAS: A LIFE OF GIVING                       EAST BAY FELLOWSHIP

(Series, #1)                                                                                    December 2, 2007

CELEBRATE YOUR FREEDOM

TEXT: Esther 9:17-23

INTRODUCTION

· “This is almost like being free.  I like knowing I’m giving to the elderly.”

Prisoner at Southeast Correctional Center, Missouri

· The Bible is full of examples of this principle:

a. The exiled generation -  __________________________________________________

b. The Prodigal Father - ___________________________________________________

c. The first generation of Christians - ________________________________________

1) RECOGNIZING GIFTS OF FREEDOM

· It’s worth noting in verse 20 and 22 that Mordecai “recorded” the events and

“wrote” down the direction they should take based on those events.

2) REMEMBERING GIFTS OF FREEDOM

· I remembered my songs in the night. My heart mused and my spirit inquired...I will

remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will

meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds.

                          Ps 77:6-12 (NIV)

3) RELEASING GIFTS OF FREEDOM

· Mordecai encouraged the people to celebrate their freedom by giving it away.

CONCLUSION

· Freely you have received, freely give.

                    Matt. 10:8