“Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shall escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether hold thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed; and who knows whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?Esther 4:13-14
The story of Esther is a fascinating story! When you have some time, read the entire book for yourself. The story is really about conquering anxiety and releasing fear to accomplish God's desire for your life. The annual Jewish celebration of Purim is actually based on this historical / biblical event.
When we read the story of Esther, most of us look at her self-sacrifice and heroism; however, today let's take a look at Mordecai, the adult cousin, who became her guardian and mentor. It was a custom in all communities around the world to take the responsibility of raising a family member's child/ children if they became orphans, or if their parents simply could not care for them. In some cases, if a wealthy member of the family or community were childless, someone would send their own child to them to raise as their own. It was rare that a couple went without having children, whether they were biological or not. Today we look at people like Madonna and Angelina Jolie, and are perplexed at their decision to adopt children from the ravages of poverty. Esther’s cousin Mordecai, whom she referred to as her uncle must have been a man with a good heart. He not only agreed to raise Esther as his own child, he gave her the principles that would nurture a love for God, ultimately leading her to the kind of heroism that would save an entire nation. He taught her self-reliance, respect, bravery, and altruism. He thought she was beautiful, and because he thought so, and told her so, she believed him. Through his influence and guidance she would follow the path God designed for her life.
Each one of us has the ability to shape the lives of the children directly in our lives or somewhere around us. Many of us can search our past to find more than one adult, other than our parents, who shaped and nurtured our minds, talents, and gifts. They taught us to cast out fear, so that we could become the person we are today. We have to look around us and nurture the children who will one day become our guardians. As is the circle of life, one day they will return the favor by fulfilling God’s purpose for their lives, and you never know—they too might save a nation! L.
Study Reference: Esther 4:11-16
From:"Saving A Nation." In The Master's Hands II: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo; overflowed
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