THE STORY OF JESUS: Esther 2:8-11
“Esther had not revealed her nationality and family background.” (Esther 2:10)
Her nationality and her family background, what about her faith in God?
It is possible that they were not living as religious Jews, but cultural Jews.
One hint is their names; Esther switches her Jewish name to a name of the Persian god Ishtar.
And Mordecai maybe did the same, with his name associated with the Persian god Marduk.
Another hint is that they’re still in Susa, when many Jews had already returned to Israel.
They had found their place ‘in the world’, they had been assimilated.
Many Christians find themselves in a similar place.
Not wanting to lose their position or reputation by telling others that they’re believers.
I am not one to judge, I also find myself hesitant to identify as a Christian.
Not because I am embarrassed of God or Jesus, but because I am embarrassed by Christians.
But in my silence, do I also stay silent about God and Jesus?
Is there an extent to which I am trying to make a good name for myself ‘in the world’?
The challenge I am taking from this is to be more open about my faith in God and Jesus.
But I am also encouraged; even though they have compromised their faith in God…
God is still at work for them, behind the scenes, whether they see it or not.
This is the story of how God helps His worldly people, despite their lukewarmness.
More than that, it is the story of how God helps the people of the world, despite their sin.
This is Jesus’ story, for line of the Jews leads to the birth of the messiah – for all.
God’s love and mercy for lukewarm believers and world-loving sinners.
Why should I hesitate to speak about this?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, my following You is hindered and compromised by the world too. This is not good, but thankfully You are! Thank You for reminding me why I should not be afraid to tell others about Your patient love.
Observations/Application
The king had great power and could do as he pleased such as taking the young women. Esther was taken and and given the royal treatment but she did not reveal her identity. It probably wasn’t asked and she was of a people not liked but prejudiced against. And Mordecai walked near the courtyard because . . . of his position/rank wanting to know the welfare of Esther. How did he get placed where he was?
God’s timing.
God’s placing.
God is in charge at all times using people His wonders to perform even in foreign places. We may not speak His name at first but His name will be made known in His time. God’s timing is always the right time. Listen to His voice and He will show the Way.
Stand up, stand up for Jesus, the trumpet call obey;
Forth to the mighty conflict, in this His glorious day.
Ye that are brave now serve Him against unnumbered foes;
Let courage rise with danger, and strength to strength oppose.