Dec
17
Written by:
Route 365
12/17/2010 5:00 AM
Week 50 : Day 5
Esther 1
by Rob Cattalani
The book of Esther has long been considered a masterpiece of literature. It tells a unique story in the history of the Jewish people at a time near the end of the Old Testament. The Persians, the dominant power at this time (the time of Ezra and Nehemiah), held great sway over a large territory and people groups including the exiled people of God (1:1). Among its unique literary features is absence of any direct mention of God. This has led some over time to question its purpose in the Bible. However many have interpreted this as a purposeful choice reflecting not only the experience of exile but also the providence of God. Though not seen or openly worshiped, God was active in the world and in defense of his people.
This elaborate banquet and its obvious opulence is a stark contrast to the immediate settings of the people of God at this time (those in exile and those living in Jerusalem). The king’s request in the midst of this affair further points to the caprice of this kingdom and this king. However we can see even here the sovereign hand of God at work. Before she is introduced or even aware of her calling God has prepared history for Esther his servant.
The secular nature of this book, ironically, is key to its strength and its message. Like the ancient people of God we too live in a world that is organized around values and ideas very different and often contradictory to the truth of God’s Word. It is also a world that largely does not recognize God or look for Him. However this does not mean he is absent. He is as much at work in the world as ever, working through the people and events of history (including our own) as well as His people, the Church. The great challenge for us—as for Esther in this account—is to have the kind of faith that sees God in all of life? Not just in the places we expect but also in the places we don’t expect. I encourage you to keep this question before you as you read this account and begin ask God in what unsuspecting place might he be at work in your life today.
Your fellow traveler,
Pastor Rob
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