THE STORY OF JESUS: Esther 1-3
“All this was recorded in the book of the annals in the presence of the king.” (Esther 2:23)
This brief moment in the plot seems unimportant, but it is not.
As we shall see, this moment recorded by the king, will come up again in the story.
The story of Esther as a whole has been recorded by the King for a purpose.
But it seems an odd story for the bible, since God is no where mentioned in it.
Why does God inspire its author to record these events, in the way it is written?
My own sense is that this story parallels our stories, all peoples’ stories.
Where God is hidden, not mentioned, and yet at work behind the scenes.
Sometimes it seems like life is a series of random, unfortunate events.
And many today believe that this is all there is; no purpose, no order, no big story.
But I believe that all of history is really His story, and our story.
Our stories are recorded (Psalm 139:16), and every detail serves the master plot.
God is at work behind the scenes, like a stage manager, directing the show.
As a Jesus follower, I believe God’s kingdom is coming, according to God’s plan.
Its written in His book, and as we will see in later chapters, it all fits together.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, my story is part of Your story, which is part of creation’s story, which is part of God’s story. When the plot seems messed up, help me to remember that it all comes together in the end.
Which voice do we listen to?
All too often we listen to the advice that pleases us – the answer we desire. So it was with the king. The advice given him pleased him and therefor he acted upon the word. He had his way.
And the woman brought into the palace would influence the most important men in the kingdom to save God’s people.
Bad advice, corrupt objectives, bad influence, wealth and threats for all. As His followers, we must trust in the Lord who leads and guides us each day.
God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea
And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never failing skill
He treasures up His bright designs
And works His sov’reign will.
Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy and shall break
In blessings on your head.