Esther 1:19a “Therefore, if it pleases the king, let him issue a royal decree and let it be written in the laws of Persia and Media, which cannot be repealed, that Vashti is never again to enter the presence of King Xerxes….”
Commentary on several sites talks about the fact that God is never mentioned in the book of Esther, which is rather curious. Already I’m wondering why not? Where is God in this book? How will we see Him if He isn’t even mentioned? How does this fact change or shape the narrative?
Esther 1:19b “…Also let the king give her royal position to someone else who is better than she.”
It’s not so different than life in the middle of a global pandemic in a country with a contentious election where conspiracy theories abound and a person’s political leanings influence how people are treated. Where is God in this mess? How will we see Him if He isn’t even mentioned? How does this fact change or shape our narrative?
Esther 1:20 “Then when the king’s edict is proclaimed throughout all his vast realm, all the women will respect their husbands, from the least to the greatest.”
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the reminder that You are with us—even in the mess and the chaos of our world. Help me to look for You always, especially in the places I least expect You—like those who seem to be on the other side of the lines I’ve drawn. Help me to love You even then. Draw me closer. Amen.
Esther 1:21 The king and his nobles were pleased with this advice, so the king did as Memukan proposed.
Have a blessed day