THE STORY OF JESUS: Esther 8:9-14
“Mordecai wrote in the name of King Xerxes, sealed the dispatches with the king’s signet ring.” (Esther 8:10)
Mordecai is now Xerxes right hand man, under Xerxes’ authority alone.
Everything and everyone else must obey Mordecai, Xerxes’ chosen one.
This gives us an idea of how God created us, our place in God’s creation kingdom.
“You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor.” (Psalm 8:5)
In terms of creation order, we are below the angels; in terms of authority we are above them.
They are our servants (Hebrews 1:10), our ‘couriers’ (v.10).
Jesus came to restore us to our original creation position.
He is the firstborn Son, like Adam, and we are chosen again by grace as His rulers (Genesis 1, Hebrews 2).
“‘On that day,’ declares the Lord Almighty, ‘I will take you, my servant…’ declares the Lord, ‘and I will make you like my signet ring, for I have chosen you,’ declares the Lord Almighty.” (Haggai 2:23)
This promise, made of one of David’s heirs, also applies to Jesus Son of David, and to us His followers.
As Mordecai wears Xerxes signet ring, we are to be God’s signet ring, symbols of God’s authority on earth.
We are authorized to live, to love and to lead in a Christ-like way, for the well-being of all.
The key is ‘in a Christ-like way’; remember what happened to Xerxes previous ring-bearer Haman.
God will not bless those who abuse His authority, only those who wield it for good.
We are reminded as God’s ring-bearers, ‘with great power comes great responsibility!’
May we reflect God well as His image-bearers, may we embody His loving authority just like Jesus!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You have entrusted to me the power of love, joy, grace, mercy and peace, as well as the Spirit Who produces these things. Reign in me this way, so that I may reign for You in this way!