For such a time as this

Today: Esther 1-5

Can I just say that God has impeccable timing?

It's definitely a theme found in today's passage, but the fact that I'm reading this passage today and at this point in my life is crazy amazing. I really love the book of Esther and today's passage always serves as an incredible reminder to me of God's all-knowing power at work in our everyday lives. Let's review this section where Mordecai tries to connect with Esther after the proclamation that the Jews will be executed:

Mordecai sent her this message:

"Don't think that just because you live in the king's house

you're the one Jew

who will get out of this alive.

If you persist in staying silent

at a time like this,

help and deliverance will arrive for the Jews

from someplace else;

but you and your family will be wiped out.

Who knows?

Maybe you were made queen

for just such a time as this."

Esther sent back her answer to Mordecai:

"Go and get all the Jews living in Susa together.

Fast for me.

Don't eat or drink for three days, either day or night.

I and my maids will fast with you.

If you will do this, I'll go to the king,

even though it's forbidden.

If I die, I die."

Wow! I love Mordecai's tell-it-like-it-is boldness and Esther's courage. This passage reminds me that I may not always know why I end up some places, but God always has a purpose in mind. His purpose will be fulfilled one way or another, but (like Esther) I'd rather be part of it than miss out and live with regrets.

Tomorrow: Esther 6-10