3.14 Esther 3-4

Karrington Kelsey 

5.14.2020

Esther 3-4

Summarize what you read in one paragraph:

After Haman is elevated to the highest role in the kingdom of Persia the decrees that everyone should bow before him. This is apparently this is followed by everyone except for Mordecai. Mordecai is Jewish and by him not bowing to Haman, Haman is enraged and convinces the King to decree that all Jews should be murdered. Later on, Haman and the king have a banquet to celebrate their decision. This is all happening while Esther and Mordecai discuss Esther’s Jewish descent and they devise a plan to reveal her heritage to the king. Mordecai states that he has faith that even if Esther doesn’t reveal her Heritage to the king that God’s will will still be done and maybe she will be able to become Queen of Persia.  Esther responds saying if I perish I perish.

What is one key verse?

Esther 4:16 “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 attendants 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.”

How does what you read change your vision of God?

It reminds me that God gives us a chance to consider we have faith in him and in his will it is up to us to exercise that in times of struggle and tribulations. Specifically,  these chapters illustrate what it is to rely on God’s will regardless of the cost.

How does what you read change your vision of yourself or others?

It reminds me that sometimes we can be Haman so pumped up with pride, status, and privilege that when anyone challenges those notions we become Pharisees ourselves. So when we are challenged we are to respond with a sound mind and heart grounded in God’s love and respond with the same tact and respect Jesus showed every Gentile.

How will you Go With God because of this reading? (What is an action step?)

I’m an activist in heart and in action when I’m working for and advocating for oppressed groups I truly believe I am doing God’s will. When advocating I’m met with a lot of hate, ignorance and misunderstanding. I will continue to go with God by remembering that faith has to be constant and has to come from love regardless of the cost.

Where did you see Jesus in these chapters? (What made you think about Jesus?)

I saw Jesus was Esther willing to sacrifice her life to save her people.