Bibledoorajar Likes Esther's Plan

"But when you fast, put oil on your head

and wash your face, so that it will not

be obvious to others that you are

fasting, but only to your Father,

who is unseen; and your Father, who sees

in secret, will reward you."

Matthew 6: 17-18

     While Mordecai's appeal was done in a very external way, Esther now called on God's people to fast privately wherever they were located within the kingdom. She did not spend a lot of time worrying about the situation the people were in. Nor did she feel that if she and the people were zealous in being religious( an external fast), she would surely be safe as she went before the king. Rather, she wanted the people to go privately to God with a genuine repentance of any sin and a serious concern about their impending calamity. Esther knew that deliverance by God was essential but she did not ASSUME on God. She asked for the fast, and reported that she would go before the king even though she had no assurance that he would extend his scepter. Having no assurance the people were fasting, she concluded that she would ask for an audience with the king and if  "I perish, I perish."

     Esther was a smart lady. She knew that if the people's fast was not genuine her life was in peril. But she will forever be remembered for her courage take action on behalf of God's people. I applaud all Christians throughout the world who are taking brave actions, trusting that millions of their brothers and sisters are praying for their safety. I am challenged to pray more along these lines and to trust the God of Mordecai and Esther to move mightily in our time in history. How about you?