March 10 - Esther
Esther 7 and 8
Verse 3: Then Queen Esther answered, “If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life - this is my petition. And spare my people – this is my request.”
Esther began all of her responses to the King’s questions in a similar way. She knew her position as Queen was tenuous. She was there because the last Queen displeased King Xerxes. His advisors warned him women’s disrespect would spread, Queen Vashti had to be replaced. (Back story, not part of this reading)
King Xerxes seems to be blinded by beauty and lust. ‘What is your request? Even up to half my kingdom, it will be granted.’ Spare your life and spare your People? Sure, no problem. Who started this whole mess? OK, he’s dead, here’s all his stuff. Anything else? Overrule Haman’s dispatches? Sure, your buddy Mordecai can have this ring to seal it. Royal secretaries, write whatever he says. And give him these robes and a crown. Anything else sweetie?
Subversive spirituality? I’m not sure. God puts us in places we need to be and gives us choices that may have far greater implications than we realize. Was it Esther who was subversive in her requests? Or was King Xerxes subverted by his passion?
Compassionate God, help us to use subversion for good. Encourage us to recognize what tools we can use to make life easier for others. Guide those in power to recognize what is just and equitable. Amen
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