Wednesday, May 1, 2019 “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maids will fast as you do. When it is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:16 (The Book of Esther)
The story of Esther reads like a fairy tale, but has strong connections to historical accuracy and archeological validation. She was a beautiful Jewish girl raised by her cousin Mordecai after her parents died. King Xerxes was preparing for an exhibition against Greece. Before he left he had a great feast to show his wealth and power, but his current wife Vashti, refused to play along. He banished her and left orders for new candidates for queen to be made ready while he was gone. Upon his return he chose the beautiful Jewish girl, Esther. His side kick Haman, did not know her uncle was Mordecai. Mordecai’s refusal to bow humbly, not just as court customs demand, but to show personal submission, to Haman, triggered an act of hate that became a plot meant to annihilate the Jewish people. Through faith and obedience the extermination of the Jews was averted and a path was made politically for Ezra and Nehemiah.
Purim is celebrated as the time when the Jews got relief from their enemies and their sorrow was turned into joy.
God is not mentioned, probably because we have a version copied from Persian records. Yet, God’s providence and care is nowhere more evident than in this story. Egypt has its Joseph, Babylon its Daniel and Persia has the story of these brave and faithful servants to God’s will and way. If you think you can’t change the course of history, try. It’s simple, pray and obey.
Love,
Gretchen