“The Jews struck down all their enemies with the sword… But they did not lay their hands on the plunder.” (Esther 9:5,10)
The violence here was self-defense, only killing those who were out to kill them.
Apparently, even with the king’s new decree, many still wanted to kill the Jews.
It is striking that the Jews did not lay their hands on the plunder.
Even though the king’s decree included the right to plunder (Esther 8:11).
This would have been a mercy to the families of those killed, they retained their assets for living.
Apparently their thirst for justice was not driven by rage, bitterness or revenge, but mercy.
This is similar to what Paul says about revenge and overcoming evil with good.
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:19-21).
How do we respond to evil, do we pursue the law to the extreme?
Even if we have the right to justice, mercy can triumph through justice.
A drunk driver ought to face justice, but it is also possible for the victims family to show mercy.
There is a difference between justice for revenge and justice for mercy.
God demonstrates justice for mercy, not revenge… we are encouraged to do the same.
His goal is not to pay back, but to win back, to heal a broken relationship where possible.
“The Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.'” (Zechariah 7:9)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, may my love for others who have hurt me be so strong that I am more concerned about winning them back than paying them back.