Mordecai hears of an order signed by the king to kill, slaughter and annihilate the Jews. Mordecai was distraught. He tore his clothes, put on a sackcloth and went to the palace gate.
Esther heard that Mordecai was troubled. She offered clothing, but this was declined. Esther continued to investigate. Esther summoned one of the king’s eunuchs and Mordecai provided all the details to Hathak. Mordecai requested that Hathak explain this to Esther and have her beg the king for mercy to save her people.
Upon receiving this news, Esther expresses fear. Esther relays a message back to Mordecai that it is well known that anyone who approaches the king without being summoned, risks their life.
Mordecai responds to Esther by reminding her that her life is at stake because of the order that is in place to destroy, kill and annihilate the Jews. He warns her that her family will perish and encourages Esther to use her power and position as Queen to save the Jews.
Esther devises a plan and requests that Mordecai gather all the Jews and fast. She also agrees to fast with her attendants for three days and three nights. Esther informs Mordecai “When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”
Esther continues to exhibit some real admirable qualities in this passage: She begins by gathering information. She reviews her limitations. She acknowledges her fear. She weighs her options. She makes a plan and prepares herself to take action, and accepts the potential consequences. I don’t know about you, but this young woman continues to impress me!
Dear Lord,
Thank You for using Esther as an example of a good and faithful servant. Help us to gather all necessary information before springing into action. We appreciate that we can come to You with our true feelings and that You are there to comfort us and help us see beyond our fears. And once we do all this, we know that You help us to evaluate what to do, prepare ourselves, and guide us through the unknown. We trust in YOU! In Jesus Name, Amen
