"If I perish, I perish."

Today's readings: Ps 80; Est 4:4-17; Acts 18:1-11; Luke 1:1-4, 3:1-14

Are heroes born or made? Chapter 4 of Ester tries to get to the heart of the question. Ester’s story does not begin heroically: she is a harem girl who – on the advice of her uncle Mordecai – hides her Jewish heritage and becomes the favored concubine of the king of Persia. He makes her his new queen, but a queen who is little more than a slave herself.

Like many people, Ester’s concerns for the world don’t extend beyond her family. When she learns her uncle Mordecai is outside the castle gate and wearing only a sackcloth (a symbol of grief) she sends him clothes. He refuses them and has messengers explain the king’s chief official is going to kill all the Jews in the empire, and asks Ester to plead with the king on behalf of her people. Ester declines, saying she is as powerless as anyone who approaches the king unbidden.

Ester is saying something we hear and say all the time: “I don’t want to get involved.” Sometimes we know we shouldn’t stick our nose in where it doesn’t belong. Other times we don’t want to deal with the complications and risks that may result. In matters of justice, however, aren’t we called by God to do what we can? Many heroes of the bible were reluctant. Like Ester – and us! – they initially claimed to be powerless or a poor choice.

After Mordecai explains that she is in a (providentially?) unique position to help her people, and that if she refuses her family will perish when someone else steps up, Ester reevaluates her decision. In the end, she agrees to risk her life by approaching the king.

When we are called to become involved in affairs beyond our home or family, do we answer the call, or do we need to be coerced like Ester? When we feel powerless in the face of oppression, we can remember others are equally as powerless – which means we are equally as powerful as anyone else. Prayerful consideration may lead us to the age-old question, “If not me, then who?” Sometimes, even when we don’t feel heroic, God call us to be heroes. If God believes in us, why wouldn’t we?

Comfort: I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. (Phil 4:13)

Challenge: When you feel powerless about a problem of injustice, consider the possibility that – despite risk – you may be the solution.

Prayer: God of strength, call me to whatever tasks you will.

Evening readings: Ps 77, 19