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Esther 8:15-17, When Mordecai left the king’s presence, he was wearing royal garments of blue and white, a large crown of gold and a purple robe of fine linen. And the city of Susa held a joyous celebration.  For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.  In every province and in every city to which the edict of the king came, there was joy and gladness among the Jews, with feasting and celebrating. And many people of other nationalities became Jews because fear of the Jews had seized them.

Esther again puts herself out there, asking the king one more difficult thing.  The king had decreed that all Jews would be eliminated.  Thus, another edict must be made that superseded the previous one.  Esther knows this so she pleads with the king to overrule the horrible decree made by Haman so her people could be saved.  The king basically allows Esther and Mordecai to create the new decree themselves and hands over his signet ring so they can seal it on behalf of the king. 

The new decree was strong.  It guaranteed that the Jewish people could protect themselves, giving them the right to annihilate and plunder any group who tried to conquer or harm them.  It even designated a specific date on which the Jews could attack their enemies.

In today’s focus verses, we read about Mordecai.  He has the privilege of delivering the news of the new decree to the Jewish people.  By this point, the roles have been totally reversed for Mordecai.  No longer does he need to sit by the king’s gate in ash cloth.  No longer does he need to worry about his life or the fate of his people.  He is the victor, but only because a young queen was willing to do the right thing and risk it all for the sake of her people.

What is God calling you to do right now?  What excuses are you making?  How does this text inspire you to step out in faith?

Let’s pray…Lord Jesus, We thank you for your Word which gives us such powerful inspiration to step out in faith.  Give us courage, motivation, and strength to do whatever it is you are calling us to do.  More of you and less of me.  In Your Name, Amen.