| FACTS...
Name: Esther (meaning Star) |  |
BACKGROUND...
Esther was chosen as wife of King Xerxes of Persia when his first wife, Vashti, openly was defiant to his word. One of the nobles of Persia, Haman, had a plan to exterminate the Jews living in Persia. No one knew that Esther was a Jew because her cousin and guardian Mordeci had instructed her not to tell anyone. When the evil plan became known Esther was persuaded by Mordeci to go before the King and plead for her people's lives. She goes before the King even though she could be put to death and her life is spared. Esther tells the King of her nationality and through this the Jews are given protection against Haman's plans. The holiday of Purim is celebrated in remembrance of this great event.
IN ESTHER'S OWN WORDS...
As I walk through the hallways of the Royal palace I am strangely unafraid. I am arrayed in the red and purple royal robes. The heavy crown is set upon my perfectly done hair and my scent intoxicates even myself. I am going before Xerxes my husband the kind in his inner court. He has not summoned me and the law says that anyone who does this is to be put to death, unless the King raises his scepter. I should be quaking but instead I have peace. I know that whatever happens Jehovah will be with me and His purposes will be worked out. He is faithful and promises to bless those who are obedient to his decrees. My fellow Jews have been fasting and praying for three days. I have carefully beautified myself and am ready to walk before my husband. If I perish, I perish for I am resting in my God and in his plan. I am but a woman against a powerful King, but I will do all I can to serve the Almighty.
I wasn't going to go before the powerful Xerxes at first. Mordeci quickly turned my thoughts around and reminded me that my position is not a result of myself, but of God and that this may be the reason for me being chosen as Queen. I am the only one who can save the Jews against the evil plot of Haman. I have the lives of thousands on my shoulders and it is only through the strength of God that I can bear this load.
written by: Rachel Visser