Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Queen Esther: The Lone Ranger-ess?

We often think of Queen Esther as a female Lone Ranger. 
from Bible Illustrations by Sweet Media


Born for “such a time as this.” A time to save her people from wicked Haman’s attempt to wipe out God’s people. 
“And who knows but that you have come into your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 NIV
We envision Esther pulling herself up by her bejeweled bootstraps, throwing back her shoulders, and striding into the King’s Presence on a solo mission. The weight of the Jewish world on her shoulders. 

But the reality is, Esther brought an army with her into that royal throne room. 

Because the very first thing Queen Esther did, when given the charge to intercede on behalf of God’s people, was to ask her friends and attendants within the palace to fast and pray with her. And she directed the entire community of faith to do the same. 

Esther brought a multitude into the king’s presence with her. Some she knew well and others she didn’t know at all. But each person joined to her and to each other in an army of prayer, looking to the One who could save. 

Our heroine reminds us that being courageous doesn’t mean going it alone, whether it’s entering the presence of a king, an oncologist or a colicky baby.  

So when you and I find ourselves at the end of ourselves, let us be like Queen Esther. Not withdrawing into isolation, but petitioning the Lord of Hosts, and asking the people around us to come alongside.   
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 NIV
Let us enter the throne room together, bearing one another’s burdens, for every single “such a time as this.”