Esther: Faith in challenging times
Theme: The Missional God for Overcomers in all times.Introduction: The Book of Esther is about the intervention and the faithfulness of the Sovereign God for the deliverance of his people. Look at the main characters: the King/Wise persons; the Queens (Vashti/Esther), the Prime Ministers (Haman/Mordecai) and the Nations (Persians/Jews) who all revealed the heart attitude characteristic of their times. Overcomers need wisdom to discern these extraordinary times.
The Overcomer Esther (Hadassah) was equipped to the point of having the courage to say "And if I perish, I perish"(4:16), in order to fulfill her assignment in the past, the present and the future.
Past to overcome: God knows all things in human hearts: power, wealth and fame for individuals, families, tribes, and kingdoms. The authorities abused, married, impaled, honoured and appointed in the varying times of disobedience, integrity, service, royal appointments, diabolical systems and enemies and they celebrated Purim (salvation). The God of Esther is also Christ-with-us today to overcome all situations.
Present to overcome: The presence of God is still directing his people to overcome. The mission of God is rooted in the love of God. In Covid-19, God is with us to discern the times. Christians today fear evil, yet Christ is present to help us, even if powers manipulate human weaknesses. The God-man, Jesus Christ cares for us more than we care for ourselves.
Future to overcome: Humanity has no lasting solution to overcome sin. Yet Overcomers like Mordecai were looking for liberation and protection from another source. Children of God, always hope to overcome in the face of challenges, be it be spiritual or physical. Jesus Christ will provide deliverance in times of Covid-19. Pray that the Holy Spirit may help us to interpret for such a time as this!
Conclusion: Yes! Jesus Christ in the same yesterday, today and forever. We are in the loving hands of God. Indeed, humanity is facing all kinds of challenges. Yet, the Missional God is the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit who will give us strength in our times, to declare His Sovereignty.
| 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 royal position for such a time as this?" Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: "Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maids will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish." (Esther4:14-16) |
Rev. Reuben Daka, Kaunda Square Congregation, Synod of Zambia of the UPCSA
