Devotion - Monday, October 20

Having finished the Book of Job (one of my favorites in the Old Testament), my daily readings now have me in another of the Old Testament books I love - Esther.  If it has been a while since you read this book, make that your goal.  It is a  short book, it is a story, more of a short story that can easily be read in one sitting.

Esther is a Jew.  This is not known to the King, who chooses her as his Queen.  One of the King's commanders develops a grudge against Esther's uncle (Mordecia).  He manages to get the King to issue a decree that all the Jews are to be put to death.  Mordecia puts on sackcloth (a traditional symbol for mourning) and sits outside the palace.  When Esther sends her maids to him, he relays the story to her.

Esther says there is nothing she can do.  No one (even a Queen) can approach the King without an invitation.  Mordecia says to her, "Who knows whether you have come to the Kingdom for a time such as this."  (Esther 4:14)

Who knows?

From Esther I summon up the courage to do things that I might not otherwise have the courage to do.  From her story, I learn that I don't have to be a hero, but I can do the heroic thing.  Who knows, the opportunity set before me may be the reason I have come to the kingdom; it may be my moment to make a difference and to save the lives of others.

In the book of Esther, there is no mention of the name of God.  There are only those who live out what caring for the name of God means.  It is a great book for those who would rather not be the spokesperson, but are prepared to be the actor.  It is an encouragement to not let the opportunity to do the right thing to pass.

Who knows?  The reason you have come to the kingdom may be set before you this day.  Act as if it were that moment - so you won't miss the opportunity, so that the people of God might benefit from your action.