Esther’s Urgent Request
Scripture Reading — Esther 7
Queen Esther answered, “If I have found favor with you, Your Majesty . . . grant me my life . . . and spare my people. . . .”
Haman had planned to destroy the Jews (March 14). He had also set a day for the killing to take place (Esther 3:13). But God did not allow Haman’s scheme to unfold. Hearing the prayers of Mordecai, the people of Judah, and Queen Esther, God judged Haman.
When she heard the news about Haman’s plot, Queen Esther resolved to approach the king for his favor and mercy, even if it meant that she might die if he refused her (Esther 4:15-5:4).
And at a banquet she prepared, she said, “If I have found favor with you, Your Majesty, and if it pleases you, grant me my life—this is my petition. And spare my people—this is my request.” The king now realized how vicious Haman’s plot was, and he agreed with Esther’s request.
God brought Haman’s evil scheme down on his own head. As Psalm 7:15-16 puts it, “Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out falls into the pit they have made. The trouble they cause recoils on them; their violence comes down on their own heads.” Haman was impaled to death on a pole that he had made for Mordecai.
People reap what they sow. Let us ask God to help us do good, and not evil, in all that we think, do, and say.
God, you see everything we do, and you know our hearts. Forgive us our sins, and help us to do good, showing love to our neighbors each day. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
About the author — Jang Ho Park
Jang Ho Park is a pastor in Tacoma, Washington. He and his wife, Jong Boon, have two sons.
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