The Price You Need to Pay

¹When Mordecai learned all that had happened, he tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city. He cried out with a loud and bitter cry. ² He went as far as the front of the king’s gate, for no one might enter the king’s gate clothed with sackcloth.(Esther 4: 1-2)

Esther, living in the seclusion of the palace, was completely unaware of the horrific decree issued by the king to exterminate all Jews. She was perplexed by the actions of her cousin Mordecai who was making a scene, but she couldn't comprehend the reason behind his behaviour.

However, her maids and eunuchs, who were more in touch with the outside world, informed Esther about the devastating news. They told her of the edict to destroy the Jews and how Haman had promised to pay a large sum into the king's treasury to carry out the extermination. This information was a shock to Esther, as she realized the gravity of the situation and the danger that her people faced.

Mordecai, sent a messenger to deliver a copy of the decree to Esther. Upon receiving the decree, Mordecai issued a challenge to Esther, urging her to take action on behalf of her people. He implored her to intercede with the king, using her influence to plead for mercy and protection for the Jews.

This was a significant request, as Esther was living in the palace and had direct access to the king, but it also placed her in a precarious position, as the king's edict was set and any intervention on her part could result in serious consequences.

¹³ Mordecai’s reply to Esther was as follows: “Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king’s palace any more than all the other Jews. ¹⁴ For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:13-14)

Mentors inspire us to broaden our perspectives and pursue our passions. They lead us past our fears and invite us to consider how we might play a role in God's larger plan.

Mordecai, in essence, asked Esther, "Have you thought about the possibility that this could be a part of God's plan for you?" This question not only encouraged Esther to reflect on her purpose, but also implied that she had a significant part to play in the divine plan for her people.

Each of us has a unique chance to serve God, but these opportunities come with inherent risks. This may involve fasting and prayer, financial sacrifice, forgiveness and letting go of past hurt, or stepping outside of one's comfort zone to answer God's call. Whatever the challenge may be, it is essential to understand that serving God requires a certain level of bravery and a willingness to take risks.

The Price You Need to Pay

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