ESTHER

Have you ever been disliked without reason or persecuted unjustly? Scripture teaches us to be at peace with all men (Romans 12:18). But what happens when we encounter someone who is committed to causing us harm? Let us examine the famous story of a Jewish queen who gracefully manages unwarranted persecution, winning the heart of a king and saving a nation in just three days.

This account begins with a Persian king named Ahasuerus, who throws a six-month long feast celebrating the opulence of his kingdom. Shortly after, he requests the presence of his queen. To his surprise and dismay, she blatantly refuses to show up. After some counsel with his advisors, Ahasuerus decides to replace her with a new face, thus, paving the way for Esther to enter the scene.

The king puts forth a decree for all the beautiful, young, and unmarried women of the provinces to be presented before him for the selection of a new queen. A twelve-month preparation period is given to each of these women before their official introduction. During this time, Esther is advised by her cousin and father-figure, Mordecai, to keep her Jewish identity a secret. When Esther’s turn finally arrives, she dazzles everyone and obtains the favor of the royal leader. She is instantly crowned queen and even has a holiday named after her!

Haman, a high ranking official, seeks to harm Mordecai because of his refusal to bow to him. His wounded ego leads him to request a day in the calendar solely for committing genocide against the Jews out of his hatred towards Mordecai. King Ahasuerus blindly grants Haman permission to do so under the false premise of Israel’s contradictory law. He unknowingly signs away the life of his beloved Jewish queen.

Once Mordecai learns of this, he pleads with Esther to act on behalf of her people. She starts a three day fast for all Jews before presenting herself before the king. She cleverly hosts a banquet and invites both Ahasuerus and Haman to attend. There she reveals the evil scheme and implicates Haman as her persecutor. Haman is eliminated and the Jewish people are given permission to gather and prepare in advance to protect their lives.

Even in hopeless times, do not underestimate God’s ability to turn it all around! Plead to the King of kings because He hears us and defends us from our adversaries!