This Time. Right Here, Right Now.
One of my favorite stories from the Bible is Esther’s. Esther was a Jewish woman who was married to King Xerxes (or Ahasuerus), king of Persia. One of Xerxes’ officials, Haman, wanted to kill all the Jewish people in the kingdom. Risking her life and position, Esther boldly went before King Xerxes and pleaded with him to protect her people from Haman and his wicked plans. She was successful, and God’s people were triumphant over those who wanted to hurt them.
A popular verse from Esther’s story is said by her cousin and guardian, whose name was Mordecai. He said, “For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). Many people focus on the last portion of the verse, and while it is important, the beginning of the verse is also vital for us at Huntington University to understand.
I often assume Esther was completely willing to go before King Xerxes and had no fears at all. However, given the historical context, Esther would have been risking her life and stability to request to speak directly to the king, even though she was the queen. When she voiced her concerns to Mordecai, he reminded her of a fact that is still true today: God doesn’t need us to accomplish His plans. If Esther had not gone to King Xerxes, God would have brought deliverance in another way. He is not limited to our worries, concerns, and shortcomings. Instead, He wants to help us realize that even in our fear, we were still handpicked and equipped to do what He asks of us.
With this understanding of God’s power and grace, the last part of the verse becomes even more impactful. Mordecai reminded Esther that even though God could choose someone else to save the Jewish people, she was in this position at this specific time for a reason. God wanted to use her to change history, and with that assurance in mind, Esther was able to act through her fear and bring relief to her people.
God may not be asking you to intercede with a king, but He intentionally has you at HU. With whatever He has called you to, know that He chose you. Anyone else could have been chosen, but you have been gifted with unique abilities to carry out your purpose. You are learning in your specific field and living with specific people for a reason, and who knows but that you have come to this position for such a time as this?
If you need wise words spoken over you like Mordecai did for Esther, or if you want to talk more with someone about what your purpose in God’s plan might look like, reach out to the Center for Spiritual Formation.
