Esther, Born for Such a Time as ThisNäide

Freedom brings life and joy; this small phrase says it all. To elaborate a bit more: accepting Jesus gives freedom, and freedom brings life and joy. This is the gospel in a nutshell: that Jesus set aside everything for our freedom and eternal life.

Esther risked losing everything, just like her predecessor. She could have been sentenced to death. She had to be willing to sacrifice everything for the freedom and life of her people. Just like Jesus sacrificed everything to bring us life and joy, Esther was willing to risk everything; but she gladly did this—for herself, for Mordecai, and for the Jewish people. She became a blessing to the people because she surrendered to God's guidance to do what was necessary "in a time like this."

Jesus became a blessing to mankind because, in the year 33, He surrendered to do what was necessary on a cross at Calvary. The Ancient of Days saved mankind through Christ, and Christ, in dying for the sins of the world, became a blessing to all.

What freedom, what joy for all those who accept this in faith. Let us celebrate and join Him at His table, because His table is abundantly prepared for those who belong to Him.