When Mordecai learned all that had been done, Mordecai tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and he cried out with a loud and bitter cry. *2*He went up to the entrance of the king’s gate, for no one was allowed to enter the king’s gate clothed in sackcloth. *3*And in every province, wherever the king’s command and his decree reached, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting and weeping and lamenting, and many of them lay in sackcloth and ashes.
Esther 4:1–3.
15*Then Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal robes of blue and white, with a great golden crown and a robe of fine linen and purple, and the city of Susa shouted and rejoiced. *16*The Jews had light and gladness and joy and honour. *17*And in every province and in every city, wherever the king’s command and his edict reached, there was gladness and joy among the Jews, a feast and a holiday. And many from the peoples of the country declared themselves Jews, for fear of the Jews had fallen on them.
Esther 8:15–17.
Grief, lament, bitter cries, mourning, fasting, weeping, sackcloth and ashes transformed into; royal robes, golden crown, shouting, rejoicing, lightness, gladness, joy, honour, feasting, a holiday.
How does that happen?
In the matter of a few months, the lives of the Jewish people was radically transformed. They were awarded life when the previous sentence over them had been death. How did such a complete change of circumstances occur?
Well, let's consider the people concerned - the Jews. Despite the edict of death being pronounced over them, they continued to faithfully live their lives even though stricken by grief. They lived with the perpetual fear of annihilation, yet they lived nobly. They maintained their faith and their culture and they leaned on their God. Eventhough death had been pronounced over the whole people group, they continued to live responsibly and faithfully. They knew their fate was sealed, a kings edict - unrevokable. They knew the future looked like a complete wiping out of their nation. So, what was their response? They lived righteously and they fasted and prayed. They knew they had little power or influence to change the circumstances, so they did the little they could, and they handed their fate and faith over to their God. They poured out their hearts, they appealed to God for rescue, then they got on with life - what else could they do?
Even with a death sentence over their heads, the Jews; went to work, played with their kids, tidied their homes - normal everyday stuff. They got on with living eventhough their hearts were full of grief. They kept going. They did not know how this was going to all work out, they were probably were more certain of their death than deliverance, yet they continued their lives of obedience. They sought God and they carried on.
Do you do the same when you encounter a change of circumstance? when you are faced with paining suffering?
Even when your life is threatened, your situation hopeless, do you hold on to your faith? Do you realise that if all else is against you, there is One who isn’t? Do you, as the Jews did turn to God, pray, weep and fast?
What is your first response in tragedy?
This year, I want to take a leaf out of the Jews book. Their immediate response to devastating news was to pray and fast. They dint tell all their friends about it, they didn't hide, they faced the situation with the only one who cold have any influence. They had to live in the uncertainty, in the tragedy for a while, but God delivered in a mighty way - look at the celebration, how their mourning was turned into dancing. Times of fasting turned to feasting, mourning turned into shouts of joy. The Jews did not hide from their chase in circumstances, they took into account their emotions, they got on with life and they fell on God, and God provided a greater day of celebration than if the change of circumstances had never occurred. God gave life where there was death pronounced. The Jews had to live through it first though, they demonstrated faith and obedience and trust in God. Do you do the same when your circumstances change?
Showing posts with label Mordecai. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mordecai. Show all posts
Wednesday, 8 January 2020
Wednesday, 1 January 2020
who to trust?
Throughout Esther, we see the king give his trust to three people; Haman, Mordecai and Esther. Yet, how do these people gain this position and influence in the king’s life?
Haman won favour by being a good, ruthless warrior. He was a successful soldier. A king doesn't notice everyone in his army, so there must of been something about Haman that stood out. He must of achieved fantastic feats in order for the king to even know his name let alone put him into a position of honour and trust. Haman’s succession to second-in-command seems to be purely based on his strategic advances and battlefield skills. The king probably considered that as this Haman is fighting so hard for the kingdom, he must really care about it and it’s leader - a logical summation. Haman was championed and rewarded for his success, so he gained greater favour and greater trust with the king, until he became the right-hand man. Haman then had the king’s ear and could influence decisions that effected the whole kingdom. Haman, to the king seemed trustworthy, he worked and fought hard, why would he do that unless he was really invested? He grew in confidence and in favour with the king as he worked his way up, and he worked his way into the king's trust.
Then there’s Mordecai. Once overlooked, he gradually becomes noticed when his previous deeds are suddenly recalled. It is then that the true status of the man as a loyal defender of the throne is revealed. He has, for years, continued living in obscurity as a loyal scribe. All the while he has maintained his character and continued to faithfully live and work, unknown by name to the majority within the palace. Then he is propelled into centre-stage of palace life! Suddenly he is remembered from some past effort, and accelerated into the place of greatest trust with the king. The king comes to recognise that this man has demonstrated confidence, loyalty and patience in his kingdom. He has faithfully served the kingdom without a murmur of discontent, even though he’s been overlooked. The king comes to understand that this is man worthy of great trust. Haman had worked hard for years obtain it, yet Mordecai had just worked faithfully for years, unseen and unknown by many, when suddenly the king discovers the commitment of this very man to his kingdom, and his very life. The king turns from not knowing his name, to propelling Mordecai into second-in-command, the position of greatest trust in the kingdom. Mordecai was a faithful fellow, minding his own business, doing his best in life to do the right things although often overlooked, he was respected by the people (so don't be afraid if your acts of kindness or faithfulness are overlooked, the King above sees them all.)
Lastly, we consider Esther. She gained her position of trust with the king through a type of beauty contest. She had to compete with many women to satisfy the king and be noticed by him. It was then she was chosen as a wife, a position of some trust, but she had to depend on the king’s desire to see her before she could even speak to him. She had to depend on his satisfaction in her in order to win any opportunity to even approach him. We may think the value and position of a wife is one of great trust, but Esther had to use all her feminine wiles in order to even get to speak to the king. She had to prepare feasts and wine, entertainment and conversation in order to even be heard. Yet, at the time of Haman’s deception becoming revealed, she too is propelled into a position of trust, just like Mordecai. The king realises his own regard for her, his desire to protect her, and she gains trust to equally share the task of protecting the Jews alongside Mordecai. She is moved from merely existing in the palace to a place of prominence. She gains the king’s trust, because she is wise in how she approaches the king. She worked towards his interests and worked to win his favour. She put the desires of the king before she presented her own.
So, how does the king determine whom he trusts? It must be hard to decipher who is genuine when you’re royalty. Many will just ‘suck up’ because they want the power, influence and gifts of being in your favour. It must of been hard for Ahasuerus. How could he determine if Haman or Mordecai, or even Esther weren’t after their own agendas rather than his interest? He must of been swamped with do-gooders, with those that seemed keen to please him, but many probably did it out of fear, or for their own promotion. Who is genuinely interested in the king?
I would imagine many reading this would wonder about the relevance to their own lives, as how many of you are kings and queens?!
Yet, it does challenge unto look at those we place in positions of trust in our lives. Who occupies your time and who do you speak to about the condition of your heart and circumstances? Who are you in relationship with that you can trust?Are there unseen, faithful people that you overlook? Are their Mordecai's that you barely pay attention to but are always there for you? who have stood the test of time and have shown their faithfulness time and again? Maybe this year is a time to start to show your appreciation of them. Are there any Haman's that are about their own thing that maybe you need to draw away from? Do you have any Esther's that show genuine friendship by really knowing how to put a smile on your face? Maybe this New Year is a time to reflect on your relationships. Who are those you should be appreciating? Who is worthy of your trust?
Banish the Haman's, Appreiate the Mordecais and enjoy the Esthers.
Haman won favour by being a good, ruthless warrior. He was a successful soldier. A king doesn't notice everyone in his army, so there must of been something about Haman that stood out. He must of achieved fantastic feats in order for the king to even know his name let alone put him into a position of honour and trust. Haman’s succession to second-in-command seems to be purely based on his strategic advances and battlefield skills. The king probably considered that as this Haman is fighting so hard for the kingdom, he must really care about it and it’s leader - a logical summation. Haman was championed and rewarded for his success, so he gained greater favour and greater trust with the king, until he became the right-hand man. Haman then had the king’s ear and could influence decisions that effected the whole kingdom. Haman, to the king seemed trustworthy, he worked and fought hard, why would he do that unless he was really invested? He grew in confidence and in favour with the king as he worked his way up, and he worked his way into the king's trust.
Then there’s Mordecai. Once overlooked, he gradually becomes noticed when his previous deeds are suddenly recalled. It is then that the true status of the man as a loyal defender of the throne is revealed. He has, for years, continued living in obscurity as a loyal scribe. All the while he has maintained his character and continued to faithfully live and work, unknown by name to the majority within the palace. Then he is propelled into centre-stage of palace life! Suddenly he is remembered from some past effort, and accelerated into the place of greatest trust with the king. The king comes to recognise that this man has demonstrated confidence, loyalty and patience in his kingdom. He has faithfully served the kingdom without a murmur of discontent, even though he’s been overlooked. The king comes to understand that this is man worthy of great trust. Haman had worked hard for years obtain it, yet Mordecai had just worked faithfully for years, unseen and unknown by many, when suddenly the king discovers the commitment of this very man to his kingdom, and his very life. The king turns from not knowing his name, to propelling Mordecai into second-in-command, the position of greatest trust in the kingdom. Mordecai was a faithful fellow, minding his own business, doing his best in life to do the right things although often overlooked, he was respected by the people (so don't be afraid if your acts of kindness or faithfulness are overlooked, the King above sees them all.)
Lastly, we consider Esther. She gained her position of trust with the king through a type of beauty contest. She had to compete with many women to satisfy the king and be noticed by him. It was then she was chosen as a wife, a position of some trust, but she had to depend on the king’s desire to see her before she could even speak to him. She had to depend on his satisfaction in her in order to win any opportunity to even approach him. We may think the value and position of a wife is one of great trust, but Esther had to use all her feminine wiles in order to even get to speak to the king. She had to prepare feasts and wine, entertainment and conversation in order to even be heard. Yet, at the time of Haman’s deception becoming revealed, she too is propelled into a position of trust, just like Mordecai. The king realises his own regard for her, his desire to protect her, and she gains trust to equally share the task of protecting the Jews alongside Mordecai. She is moved from merely existing in the palace to a place of prominence. She gains the king’s trust, because she is wise in how she approaches the king. She worked towards his interests and worked to win his favour. She put the desires of the king before she presented her own.
So, how does the king determine whom he trusts? It must be hard to decipher who is genuine when you’re royalty. Many will just ‘suck up’ because they want the power, influence and gifts of being in your favour. It must of been hard for Ahasuerus. How could he determine if Haman or Mordecai, or even Esther weren’t after their own agendas rather than his interest? He must of been swamped with do-gooders, with those that seemed keen to please him, but many probably did it out of fear, or for their own promotion. Who is genuinely interested in the king?
I would imagine many reading this would wonder about the relevance to their own lives, as how many of you are kings and queens?!
Yet, it does challenge unto look at those we place in positions of trust in our lives. Who occupies your time and who do you speak to about the condition of your heart and circumstances? Who are you in relationship with that you can trust?Are there unseen, faithful people that you overlook? Are their Mordecai's that you barely pay attention to but are always there for you? who have stood the test of time and have shown their faithfulness time and again? Maybe this year is a time to start to show your appreciation of them. Are there any Haman's that are about their own thing that maybe you need to draw away from? Do you have any Esther's that show genuine friendship by really knowing how to put a smile on your face? Maybe this New Year is a time to reflect on your relationships. Who are those you should be appreciating? Who is worthy of your trust?
Banish the Haman's, Appreiate the Mordecais and enjoy the Esthers.
Thursday, 19 December 2019
Thank God for the Little Things
Don’t you just love the way God intervenes in life?!
Sometimes it’s in subtle ways, like prompting you to pray for something or talk to someone, it could be finding a bit of money or some marvel of nature, or even disturbing your sleep.
We can take these things to be small coincidences or even just random occurrences, they are quite easy to explain away. However, like we see in Esther, a series of ‘coincidences’ led to the freedom of many people. It led to recognition and promotion as well as judgement and condemnation. Sometimes the small, unusual details of our lives can be dismissed by us as unusual circumstances. I guess my encouragement to you today, is to not be so quick to write off the unusual. To instead consider - could God be in this?
Reading Esther, Chapters 5-7 we see plenty of these unusual small situations coincide in just one day. These chapters outline the events after Esther’s first banquet, all joined together by little snippets of God’s intervention in subtle ways.
First, Haman’s jealous hatred of Mordecai is kindled yet again and reaches a crescendo as he instructs for a gallows to be built so he can hang him (not for any notable reason either really). Then, the king cannot sleep, so what does he do? He orders for the big book of history to be read to him. It just so happens to be read that Mordecai, years ago, was a hero. Mordecai undermined an assassination plot and received no acclaim for it. This concerned the king, and so he spent more wakeful hours considering how to rectify this oversight. Then Haman is spotted in the grounds, so he seeks his counsel and commands Haman to give the acclaim he described to his mortal enemy Mordecai. Lots is going on there - but can you see the subtle intervention of the Holy Spirit in these circumstances? Can you see that God is involved in every part of that process?
The king was not ill, or disturbed in order to be awake, he just couldn’t sleep - why was that? And why did he decide at that very time to have the history books read and just so happen to come across the tale of Mordecai?! That seems far too many coincidences to me to be by chance and not orchestrated by God! All of these little incidents we read about in Esther clearly outline that whilst people are getting on with their normal lives, God is there, God is at work.
In the same way God is intervening in your life too.
Watch out for the little promptings of the Holy Spirit. Look out for the way God is working, even in the small things. If you are wakeful, ask God why, if you find something that was lost, praise Him for it, if you notice something beautiful and new, thank Gos for creating it. Our lives are full of small details that God has put there for us to take notice of. Even if it’s a broken nights sleep, or a chance meeting with someone. Be aware and be prepared to see God at work. Like in Esther, the small details can come together to cause a massive life change for others. So, be attuned to what God is doing. Have eyes that see the blessings around you, the small moments of joy that God gives you, the little promptings to talk or pray with someone. In the same way that God uses others to be a blessing to us, He also uses you to be a blessing to others, so keep mindful that God wants your attention everyday, and consider what can you do that God wants you to today? God may well be song you to change someone’s life as well as your own. Be prepared to see the subtle things and do the little things God asks. You may end up being the answer to someone else’s prayer.
Sometimes it’s in subtle ways, like prompting you to pray for something or talk to someone, it could be finding a bit of money or some marvel of nature, or even disturbing your sleep.
We can take these things to be small coincidences or even just random occurrences, they are quite easy to explain away. However, like we see in Esther, a series of ‘coincidences’ led to the freedom of many people. It led to recognition and promotion as well as judgement and condemnation. Sometimes the small, unusual details of our lives can be dismissed by us as unusual circumstances. I guess my encouragement to you today, is to not be so quick to write off the unusual. To instead consider - could God be in this?
Reading Esther, Chapters 5-7 we see plenty of these unusual small situations coincide in just one day. These chapters outline the events after Esther’s first banquet, all joined together by little snippets of God’s intervention in subtle ways.
First, Haman’s jealous hatred of Mordecai is kindled yet again and reaches a crescendo as he instructs for a gallows to be built so he can hang him (not for any notable reason either really). Then, the king cannot sleep, so what does he do? He orders for the big book of history to be read to him. It just so happens to be read that Mordecai, years ago, was a hero. Mordecai undermined an assassination plot and received no acclaim for it. This concerned the king, and so he spent more wakeful hours considering how to rectify this oversight. Then Haman is spotted in the grounds, so he seeks his counsel and commands Haman to give the acclaim he described to his mortal enemy Mordecai. Lots is going on there - but can you see the subtle intervention of the Holy Spirit in these circumstances? Can you see that God is involved in every part of that process?
The king was not ill, or disturbed in order to be awake, he just couldn’t sleep - why was that? And why did he decide at that very time to have the history books read and just so happen to come across the tale of Mordecai?! That seems far too many coincidences to me to be by chance and not orchestrated by God! All of these little incidents we read about in Esther clearly outline that whilst people are getting on with their normal lives, God is there, God is at work.
In the same way God is intervening in your life too.
Watch out for the little promptings of the Holy Spirit. Look out for the way God is working, even in the small things. If you are wakeful, ask God why, if you find something that was lost, praise Him for it, if you notice something beautiful and new, thank Gos for creating it. Our lives are full of small details that God has put there for us to take notice of. Even if it’s a broken nights sleep, or a chance meeting with someone. Be aware and be prepared to see God at work. Like in Esther, the small details can come together to cause a massive life change for others. So, be attuned to what God is doing. Have eyes that see the blessings around you, the small moments of joy that God gives you, the little promptings to talk or pray with someone. In the same way that God uses others to be a blessing to us, He also uses you to be a blessing to others, so keep mindful that God wants your attention everyday, and consider what can you do that God wants you to today? God may well be song you to change someone’s life as well as your own. Be prepared to see the subtle things and do the little things God asks. You may end up being the answer to someone else’s prayer.
Wednesday, 11 December 2019
Count your blessings
Haman recounted to them the splendour of his riches, the number of his sons, all the promotions with which the king had honoured him, and how he had advanced him above the officials and the servants of the king. 12 Then Haman said, “Even Queen Esther let no one but me come with the king to the feast she prepared. And tomorrow also I am invited by her together with the king. 13 Yet all this is worth nothing to me, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the king’s gate.”
Esther 5:11–13.
Oh Haman!
Haman has just had the unrivalled honour of dining with the king and queen of the known world, and he still gets grumpy!
Do you know anyone like that? Someone who has it all, but is still discontented?
Haman has mounds of riches, honour, prestige, a growing family, a job he loves, lots to boast about, yet he can still find something to moan about! Why is he dissatisfied? It seems everything is going his way - he has prestige, power and possessions, he has most things that people would dream of, yet he focuses on the one little thing that outweighs his contentment. Then that one little niggle is so magnified in his view that it destroys his enjoyment of what is pleasing. It tarnishes his perception of his perfect life.
The little niggle that blemishes Haman’s life is the lowly man that is Mordecai. Of all the aspects of life Haman could be consumed by; power, wealth, prestige, gaiety, responsibility, Haman instead focuses on the one thing that bothers him so he fails to fully enjoy or appreciate the great things of life, why? because of a man. Because of Mordecai. It doesn't really make sense does it? Why would a powerful and influential man be upstaged, angered and jealous of the seemingly poor, unimportant, Mordecai
What is it about Mordecai that bothers Haman so much? Mordecai, materially has so very little, he has little family, little power, renknown or responsibility so what is it about Mordecai that Haman hates so much?
Could it be that every time Haman comes across Mordecai, Haman realises that actually his life isn’t fulfilling, that in fact he recognises that there is something missing? Could it be that Mordecai in his seemingly uninfluenttial, insignificant position shows greater joy and contentment in his life than Haman with all his wealth, power and possessions can attain?
I think that might be it. That for Haman, Mordecai is a constant reminder that his life isn’t as perfect and fulfilling as it would appear. That all of his achievements, prowess and power, actually doesn’t increase happiness. Haman is unfulfilled, empty. Yet he sees Mordecai, who is content with the little he has and with who he is. So, whenever Haman encounters him, he sees something lacking within himself. Haman has to acknowledge the lack of contentment everytime he sees his face. Mordecai is a constant reminder of the unattainable joy and peace. Haman has moments of joy, but not the long-lasting, unshakeable type that Mordecai has.
The one thing Mordecai has is greater than the many things Haman owns, and Haman knows it.
No matter how much Haman tries, whatever promotion he gains, honour he receives, he cannot reach the internal satisfaction that Mordecai has. Haman works and works yet still it is not enough to satisfy. He is invited to feasts, triumphant in wars, yet despite the accolade, pomp and ceremony, he knows something is missing. Then, Haman happens upon righteous Mordecai, sitting contentedly at the gate and he is tormented. Seeing this man of little accord satisfied with what he has, with the work he does, even with his limited status breeds contempt. It is a lot easier to despise the one who reminds you of what you're missing rather than consider your own responsibility for inner contentment.
Mordecai is a constant reminder that Haman will never be or have enough. Mordecai has the one thing that matters and whenever he comes across him, Haman sees his inner self more clearly and he doesn’t like it. Mordecai mirrors what he’s missing - inner confidence and satisfaction.
This seems so unachievable for Haman that the feeling of resentment, anger and revenge grows the more he sees Mordecai. As he faces this contented man, he is forced to acknowledge to himself that all of the pomp and ceremony does not actually provide the internal satisfaction that he craves. The pile of possessions, the life and love of family, the responsibility of position matters nothing and never will if you don't first attain satisfaction within. Without that, life will always be lacking, as Haman found, and there will always be something that's a problem which outweighs the great things of life.
Haman, as we have read, is consumed with Mordecai being the problem. He projects his discontent onto him when, in fact, the problem lies within himself. It is far easier to blame our condition, situation and disappointments upon others. Others may well of had an influence in our circumstances, but we are actually responsible for the condition and response of our heart. No-one else can change that. Haman allowed himself to become consumed with anger and resentment because Mordecai represented all that he lacked. Whereas, if Haman had considered his own heart and what he was missing, using Mordecai as a role model, then there could of been contentment for him too.
Considering all this raises a few questions for our own lives;
Do you focus on the problems and annoyances rather than the achievements, success and positive things all around you?
Are you concerned with how much others have compared to you?
Are you one who displays peace and contentment in all circumstances?
Have you ever thought that others may be looking at you and seeing the peace and contentment you enjoy and they are jealous for it?
What does your life display? Do you live in lack or acknowledge your wealth?
Do not underestimate the great value you have and..
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.’
Esther 5:11–13.
Oh Haman!
Haman has just had the unrivalled honour of dining with the king and queen of the known world, and he still gets grumpy!
Do you know anyone like that? Someone who has it all, but is still discontented?
Haman has mounds of riches, honour, prestige, a growing family, a job he loves, lots to boast about, yet he can still find something to moan about! Why is he dissatisfied? It seems everything is going his way - he has prestige, power and possessions, he has most things that people would dream of, yet he focuses on the one little thing that outweighs his contentment. Then that one little niggle is so magnified in his view that it destroys his enjoyment of what is pleasing. It tarnishes his perception of his perfect life.
The little niggle that blemishes Haman’s life is the lowly man that is Mordecai. Of all the aspects of life Haman could be consumed by; power, wealth, prestige, gaiety, responsibility, Haman instead focuses on the one thing that bothers him so he fails to fully enjoy or appreciate the great things of life, why? because of a man. Because of Mordecai. It doesn't really make sense does it? Why would a powerful and influential man be upstaged, angered and jealous of the seemingly poor, unimportant, Mordecai
What is it about Mordecai that bothers Haman so much? Mordecai, materially has so very little, he has little family, little power, renknown or responsibility so what is it about Mordecai that Haman hates so much?
Could it be that every time Haman comes across Mordecai, Haman realises that actually his life isn’t fulfilling, that in fact he recognises that there is something missing? Could it be that Mordecai in his seemingly uninfluenttial, insignificant position shows greater joy and contentment in his life than Haman with all his wealth, power and possessions can attain?
I think that might be it. That for Haman, Mordecai is a constant reminder that his life isn’t as perfect and fulfilling as it would appear. That all of his achievements, prowess and power, actually doesn’t increase happiness. Haman is unfulfilled, empty. Yet he sees Mordecai, who is content with the little he has and with who he is. So, whenever Haman encounters him, he sees something lacking within himself. Haman has to acknowledge the lack of contentment everytime he sees his face. Mordecai is a constant reminder of the unattainable joy and peace. Haman has moments of joy, but not the long-lasting, unshakeable type that Mordecai has.
The one thing Mordecai has is greater than the many things Haman owns, and Haman knows it.
No matter how much Haman tries, whatever promotion he gains, honour he receives, he cannot reach the internal satisfaction that Mordecai has. Haman works and works yet still it is not enough to satisfy. He is invited to feasts, triumphant in wars, yet despite the accolade, pomp and ceremony, he knows something is missing. Then, Haman happens upon righteous Mordecai, sitting contentedly at the gate and he is tormented. Seeing this man of little accord satisfied with what he has, with the work he does, even with his limited status breeds contempt. It is a lot easier to despise the one who reminds you of what you're missing rather than consider your own responsibility for inner contentment.
Mordecai is a constant reminder that Haman will never be or have enough. Mordecai has the one thing that matters and whenever he comes across him, Haman sees his inner self more clearly and he doesn’t like it. Mordecai mirrors what he’s missing - inner confidence and satisfaction.
This seems so unachievable for Haman that the feeling of resentment, anger and revenge grows the more he sees Mordecai. As he faces this contented man, he is forced to acknowledge to himself that all of the pomp and ceremony does not actually provide the internal satisfaction that he craves. The pile of possessions, the life and love of family, the responsibility of position matters nothing and never will if you don't first attain satisfaction within. Without that, life will always be lacking, as Haman found, and there will always be something that's a problem which outweighs the great things of life.
Haman, as we have read, is consumed with Mordecai being the problem. He projects his discontent onto him when, in fact, the problem lies within himself. It is far easier to blame our condition, situation and disappointments upon others. Others may well of had an influence in our circumstances, but we are actually responsible for the condition and response of our heart. No-one else can change that. Haman allowed himself to become consumed with anger and resentment because Mordecai represented all that he lacked. Whereas, if Haman had considered his own heart and what he was missing, using Mordecai as a role model, then there could of been contentment for him too.
Considering all this raises a few questions for our own lives;
Do you focus on the problems and annoyances rather than the achievements, success and positive things all around you?
Are you concerned with how much others have compared to you?
Are you one who displays peace and contentment in all circumstances?
Have you ever thought that others may be looking at you and seeing the peace and contentment you enjoy and they are jealous for it?
What does your life display? Do you live in lack or acknowledge your wealth?
Do not underestimate the great value you have and..
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.’
Tuesday, 5 November 2019
Be Brave
‘When Mordecai learned all that had been done, Mordecai tore his clothes and put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the midst of the city, and he cried out with a loud and bitter cry. *2*He went up to the entrance of the king’s gate, for no one was allowed to enter the king’s gate clothed in sackcloth. *3*And in every province, wherever the king’s command and his decree reached, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting and weeping and lamenting, and many of them lay in sackcloth and ashes.’
Esther 4:1–3.
Can you imagine the scene? Can you consider the atmosphere of this pervading grief publicly displayed on the streets, in the town and even up to the very gates of the palace?
Can you envisage the sound of the city changed by people wailing in despair?
Can you conceive the smell of the sackcloth and ashes?
How about picturing the sight of many people gathering together displaying their distress?
I don't know about you, but I find it difficult to visualise, although I can capture something of the down-heartened state the citizens must of been in during that time. The scene depicted here on Esther encapsulates the response of the Jews as they become aware of the planned annihilation of their people.
Mordecai, along with many Jews publicly demonstrated his mourning over this edict. As a community, the Jews displayed their individual and corporate grief and distress. They were not ashamed, not only to cry, but even to cry, 'out with a loud and bitter cry'. Such was the extent of their distress that they even went around, ' fasting and weeping and lamenting'.
I admire the Jews in their natural, overwhelmed, unashamed response to this horrific news. As a British citizen born and bred, it is hard to fully appreciate this response. In this country, we are taught to maintain a 'stiff upper lip' and 'put a brave face on' when we encounter times of great distress and grief. We are encouraged, conditioned, even to not let anyone know how we are really feeling. We keep the thoughts in our heads, and the emotions of our hearts well locked up, so tightly sometimes that even we ourselves can struggle to know how we feel.
I know that growing up, our family experienced some traumatic events, and even from a young age, we learned not to hide how we felt. I do not say that my family is at fault, but that the cultural expectation is 'that happened yesterday, move on'. We are encouraged to, 'sweep things under the carpet'. We do not outwardly lament, cry or express our natural responses in times of tragedy, instead we hold up our heads and keep ploughing on. We maintain the British stiff upper lip at all times, isn't that also your experience of our culture?
I know for me, as a child, I would naturally respond in fear, worry, tears, but soon found that these responses were unacceptable and unnecessary. So, I learnt to hide my emotions, if I had to cry, I would save it for the shower or under a pillow at nighttime, in fact I still do. It is hard to break the habits of a lifetime. My emotions have been hidden for so long, it is sometimes difficult for me to understand how I even feel, it take work for me to figure it out, and my loving husband often knows how I feel before I do! He is patient and kind and has modelled to me being able to express how you feel, and I do try to get there, but it is still difficult. I admire his ability to understand his emotions; state, as well as my own, and that he has freedom and confidence in expressing himself.
He reminds me of these Jews we are reading about in Esther. Unafraid, unashamed of their feelings, able to freely show their emotional state, not worrying about the response of others, but naturally displaying their emotions.
How different our culture is! Often we cannot even tell if someone is happy or sad, because we have learnt to hide it all behind a mask of indifference, behind the standard "I'm ok" response. How different would it be if we felt the permission to release our emotions in front of each other?
If we were all honest with ourselves and those around us, how would that be? Would you have the confidence or even the awareness of your own emotions to display them?
I think we have been encapsulated by the lie that it is a weakness to show how we feel, that it is not acceptable to show our emotions and that others would not like or understand us if we did. Consider the Jews in this, one by one they must of shown their grief, then one by one they realised others felt the same, then before long whole swathes of people were joining in the public mourning, they were sharing their grief, united in distress. What a strength that is. As individuals they were brave enough to show their pain to others, although sharing the pain could not resolve the situation, their was a whole community grieving together, they understood and shared each others pain. If we keep our hurt to ourselves, we have no escape from ir. We have no release from it, and we will never know the love, support and understanding of those around us.
Is it any wonder that there is grave concern in our nation about the state of our Mental Health?
Instead of 'sucking up' our emotions, or 'putting on brave faces', how about sharing our hurt with others? Give yourself permission to feel. You do not need to face the world as if nothing has happened, or remain at home languishing in despair alone. You can go out into the city, you can go to work, school, to the shops, it doesn't matter if others see your emotions pouring out of you, you are allowed to display and share your pain. You never know the people that will understand your distress, who can stand with you and cry alongside you, who can sit with you, fast and pray with you. There may well be a whole community that are with you in your despair. You are not alone in your experiences, or at least you do not have to be.
If you are not sure who to talk to, pray. Look for opportunities to talk to someone you trust, it is ok to seek advice, help, support and professional assistance, don't be afraid to face up to your emotions.
It is not brave to hide your emotions, it is far braver to face them.
Esther 4:1–3.
Can you imagine the scene? Can you consider the atmosphere of this pervading grief publicly displayed on the streets, in the town and even up to the very gates of the palace?
Can you envisage the sound of the city changed by people wailing in despair?
Can you conceive the smell of the sackcloth and ashes?
How about picturing the sight of many people gathering together displaying their distress?
I don't know about you, but I find it difficult to visualise, although I can capture something of the down-heartened state the citizens must of been in during that time. The scene depicted here on Esther encapsulates the response of the Jews as they become aware of the planned annihilation of their people.
Mordecai, along with many Jews publicly demonstrated his mourning over this edict. As a community, the Jews displayed their individual and corporate grief and distress. They were not ashamed, not only to cry, but even to cry, 'out with a loud and bitter cry'. Such was the extent of their distress that they even went around, ' fasting and weeping and lamenting'.
I admire the Jews in their natural, overwhelmed, unashamed response to this horrific news. As a British citizen born and bred, it is hard to fully appreciate this response. In this country, we are taught to maintain a 'stiff upper lip' and 'put a brave face on' when we encounter times of great distress and grief. We are encouraged, conditioned, even to not let anyone know how we are really feeling. We keep the thoughts in our heads, and the emotions of our hearts well locked up, so tightly sometimes that even we ourselves can struggle to know how we feel.
I know that growing up, our family experienced some traumatic events, and even from a young age, we learned not to hide how we felt. I do not say that my family is at fault, but that the cultural expectation is 'that happened yesterday, move on'. We are encouraged to, 'sweep things under the carpet'. We do not outwardly lament, cry or express our natural responses in times of tragedy, instead we hold up our heads and keep ploughing on. We maintain the British stiff upper lip at all times, isn't that also your experience of our culture?
I know for me, as a child, I would naturally respond in fear, worry, tears, but soon found that these responses were unacceptable and unnecessary. So, I learnt to hide my emotions, if I had to cry, I would save it for the shower or under a pillow at nighttime, in fact I still do. It is hard to break the habits of a lifetime. My emotions have been hidden for so long, it is sometimes difficult for me to understand how I even feel, it take work for me to figure it out, and my loving husband often knows how I feel before I do! He is patient and kind and has modelled to me being able to express how you feel, and I do try to get there, but it is still difficult. I admire his ability to understand his emotions; state, as well as my own, and that he has freedom and confidence in expressing himself.
He reminds me of these Jews we are reading about in Esther. Unafraid, unashamed of their feelings, able to freely show their emotional state, not worrying about the response of others, but naturally displaying their emotions.
How different our culture is! Often we cannot even tell if someone is happy or sad, because we have learnt to hide it all behind a mask of indifference, behind the standard "I'm ok" response. How different would it be if we felt the permission to release our emotions in front of each other?
If we were all honest with ourselves and those around us, how would that be? Would you have the confidence or even the awareness of your own emotions to display them?
I think we have been encapsulated by the lie that it is a weakness to show how we feel, that it is not acceptable to show our emotions and that others would not like or understand us if we did. Consider the Jews in this, one by one they must of shown their grief, then one by one they realised others felt the same, then before long whole swathes of people were joining in the public mourning, they were sharing their grief, united in distress. What a strength that is. As individuals they were brave enough to show their pain to others, although sharing the pain could not resolve the situation, their was a whole community grieving together, they understood and shared each others pain. If we keep our hurt to ourselves, we have no escape from ir. We have no release from it, and we will never know the love, support and understanding of those around us.
Is it any wonder that there is grave concern in our nation about the state of our Mental Health?
Instead of 'sucking up' our emotions, or 'putting on brave faces', how about sharing our hurt with others? Give yourself permission to feel. You do not need to face the world as if nothing has happened, or remain at home languishing in despair alone. You can go out into the city, you can go to work, school, to the shops, it doesn't matter if others see your emotions pouring out of you, you are allowed to display and share your pain. You never know the people that will understand your distress, who can stand with you and cry alongside you, who can sit with you, fast and pray with you. There may well be a whole community that are with you in your despair. You are not alone in your experiences, or at least you do not have to be.
If you are not sure who to talk to, pray. Look for opportunities to talk to someone you trust, it is ok to seek advice, help, support and professional assistance, don't be afraid to face up to your emotions.
It is not brave to hide your emotions, it is far braver to face them.
Wednesday, 23 October 2019
Be more Mordecai
Last week we looked at the character of Haman who we meet in the book of Esther, a man who seems to be a product of his environment - consumed by his own selfish desires, just like the king, Ahasuerus. There is another man that is involved in life at Susa, and within the palace, this man is known as Mordecai, and as we shall see, he displays different characteristics to Ahasuerus and Haman.
All of these men are surrounded by the opulence available in Susa, where even the palace walls and floor sparkle with riches. Mordecai and Haman have both witnessed how this kingdom works; that selfishness and ruthlessness are an acceptable means to an end, and wealth and authority are treasured above all things.
Both men also work in and around the palace and seem yo have some kind of authority, they have the same work colleagues and the same boss. They are within the same environment, with the same culture encompassing them, and the same people surrounding them - that’s a lot of ‘sameness’! So, why are these two men so different?
They are both surrounded by the same influences yet their desires and character are very different. Haman is concerned with his own affairs, and his desire is to get as much as he can however he can. Mordecai, on the other hand, is concerned with the affairs of others - he has helped bring up Esther, encourages and advises her even as an adult, and he protects the king’s life. Unlike Haman, Mordecai’s desires are not for himself, but for the welfare of others.
Mordecai demonstrates kindness to all, even to people that do not seem to deserve it. He is an upright man in a wonky society. He has not become enticed or corrupted by his environment - how is that possible?
He has maintained a consistency of character and a contentment in his position, whatever that may be. He does not seem to have a lust for money or power. In fact, he is the first person we meet in this book that has shown some loyalty and compassion.
He maintains his loyalty to his kindred, the Jews, yet also displays loyalty to the Persian king, even to the point of saving his life (Esther 2:21-23).
Then, despite the fact that Mordecai has saved the king’s life, he gets no recognition for it. He remains relatively unnoticed and unrecognised. Have you ever felt like that? He went unnoticed even when he’d uncovered an assassination plot! Yet, what was Mordecai’s response? He did not complain, he did not become bitter or disheartened - He simply carried on with life. He went to work as normal, went around the city as normal and remained loyal, as normal.
Is that your response when you’ve been unnoticed or overlooked?
It is so easy for us to become angry, resentful and bitter especially when we put ourselves out and receive nothing in return, yet doesn’t that show a lack of contentment within ourselves? A need for approval from others, a need for recognition? Mordecai displayed an assurance in who he is rather than what he can do, simply by dong nothing different, he remained consistent and contented. Can you imagine the difference if you acted the same in similar circumstances?
Then, as we read on in Esther into chapter 3; we see that Mordecai admits his heritage - he is a Jew. He acknowledges in that admission, that there is one true God, and that He is the one he bows down to.
Then, of course, he comes up again some kind of prejudice at work as his workmates tell their boss Haman about Mordecai’s faith. His faith means there’s a limit to his actions, there’s a manner in which he lives and works that has clearly stood out to them because they’ve mentioned it - they wouldn’t bother if Mordecai did the same as them. They recognised something different about him and weren’t sure how to handle it, so they told their boss. They realised that Mordecai had limitations to his work, they realised he wasn’t going to do what was expected if it meant compromise.
That’s an easy situation for us to be in, a position of prejudice or compromise in our workplaces - what do you do in those situations? Do you go along with everyone else? Do you allow your workmates to question your motives? Do you make deliberate faith-choices even when it gets a bit scary in the workplace for you?
This was Mordecai’s situation. He’d come face to face with compromise, and he put his faith first even though it meant he would come up against some kind of prejudice. It would of been easier in the moment to just go along with what everyone else was doing, but he knew it would go against what he believes and values. It’s easy to dismiss our faith when we come under pressure or feel we have to go against the crowd at work. We often think it is easier to compromise, to prevent rocking the boat, but, as Mordecai realised, there is no point compromising your integrity - you have to live with that for the rest of your life. I know I’ve compromised before - I thought it was expected and the easier way out. However, the feelings of guilt and that I’m not a ‘good enough’ christian have plagued me. Don’t live like that. It’s ok to be more like Mordecai. It’s ok to stand out for what you believe, yes criticism will come, temptation will arise, but what will your response be? Will you compromise your integrity like Haman, or continue to be consistent and content like Mordecai?
Haman had learned to compromise his character, everyone else was doing the same and he was influenced by others and their expectations as well as his lust for greater wealth and power. He went along the majority, and he didn’t become the man who plans an extermination of a whole race overnight, it probably started with something silly like stealing a pen. The thought process can be that everyone does it, so it’s ok, it’s budgetted for, and does anyone really care or notice. Maybe, or maybe not, but what’s the cost to your integrity?
Mordecai, on the other hand, worked hard, worked well, was loyal and relatively unnoticed until he started not to compromise, not to go along with the flow. He decided to stand up, to not allow others expectations to influence his ideals of right or wrong. His faith ruled his decisions, not the culture or other people, or even concern for his own safety or employment.
Are you overwhelmed by the concerns of the crowd?
Does your faith influence your decisions and actions at work?
Is there some way you need to be more like Mordecai?
There is greater freedom in being like Mordecai, Haman’s life choices led to death - where are your choices leading you?
All of these men are surrounded by the opulence available in Susa, where even the palace walls and floor sparkle with riches. Mordecai and Haman have both witnessed how this kingdom works; that selfishness and ruthlessness are an acceptable means to an end, and wealth and authority are treasured above all things.
Both men also work in and around the palace and seem yo have some kind of authority, they have the same work colleagues and the same boss. They are within the same environment, with the same culture encompassing them, and the same people surrounding them - that’s a lot of ‘sameness’! So, why are these two men so different?
They are both surrounded by the same influences yet their desires and character are very different. Haman is concerned with his own affairs, and his desire is to get as much as he can however he can. Mordecai, on the other hand, is concerned with the affairs of others - he has helped bring up Esther, encourages and advises her even as an adult, and he protects the king’s life. Unlike Haman, Mordecai’s desires are not for himself, but for the welfare of others.
Mordecai demonstrates kindness to all, even to people that do not seem to deserve it. He is an upright man in a wonky society. He has not become enticed or corrupted by his environment - how is that possible?
He has maintained a consistency of character and a contentment in his position, whatever that may be. He does not seem to have a lust for money or power. In fact, he is the first person we meet in this book that has shown some loyalty and compassion.
He maintains his loyalty to his kindred, the Jews, yet also displays loyalty to the Persian king, even to the point of saving his life (Esther 2:21-23).
Then, despite the fact that Mordecai has saved the king’s life, he gets no recognition for it. He remains relatively unnoticed and unrecognised. Have you ever felt like that? He went unnoticed even when he’d uncovered an assassination plot! Yet, what was Mordecai’s response? He did not complain, he did not become bitter or disheartened - He simply carried on with life. He went to work as normal, went around the city as normal and remained loyal, as normal.
Is that your response when you’ve been unnoticed or overlooked?
It is so easy for us to become angry, resentful and bitter especially when we put ourselves out and receive nothing in return, yet doesn’t that show a lack of contentment within ourselves? A need for approval from others, a need for recognition? Mordecai displayed an assurance in who he is rather than what he can do, simply by dong nothing different, he remained consistent and contented. Can you imagine the difference if you acted the same in similar circumstances?
Then, as we read on in Esther into chapter 3; we see that Mordecai admits his heritage - he is a Jew. He acknowledges in that admission, that there is one true God, and that He is the one he bows down to.
Then, of course, he comes up again some kind of prejudice at work as his workmates tell their boss Haman about Mordecai’s faith. His faith means there’s a limit to his actions, there’s a manner in which he lives and works that has clearly stood out to them because they’ve mentioned it - they wouldn’t bother if Mordecai did the same as them. They recognised something different about him and weren’t sure how to handle it, so they told their boss. They realised that Mordecai had limitations to his work, they realised he wasn’t going to do what was expected if it meant compromise.
That’s an easy situation for us to be in, a position of prejudice or compromise in our workplaces - what do you do in those situations? Do you go along with everyone else? Do you allow your workmates to question your motives? Do you make deliberate faith-choices even when it gets a bit scary in the workplace for you?
This was Mordecai’s situation. He’d come face to face with compromise, and he put his faith first even though it meant he would come up against some kind of prejudice. It would of been easier in the moment to just go along with what everyone else was doing, but he knew it would go against what he believes and values. It’s easy to dismiss our faith when we come under pressure or feel we have to go against the crowd at work. We often think it is easier to compromise, to prevent rocking the boat, but, as Mordecai realised, there is no point compromising your integrity - you have to live with that for the rest of your life. I know I’ve compromised before - I thought it was expected and the easier way out. However, the feelings of guilt and that I’m not a ‘good enough’ christian have plagued me. Don’t live like that. It’s ok to be more like Mordecai. It’s ok to stand out for what you believe, yes criticism will come, temptation will arise, but what will your response be? Will you compromise your integrity like Haman, or continue to be consistent and content like Mordecai?
Haman had learned to compromise his character, everyone else was doing the same and he was influenced by others and their expectations as well as his lust for greater wealth and power. He went along the majority, and he didn’t become the man who plans an extermination of a whole race overnight, it probably started with something silly like stealing a pen. The thought process can be that everyone does it, so it’s ok, it’s budgetted for, and does anyone really care or notice. Maybe, or maybe not, but what’s the cost to your integrity?
Mordecai, on the other hand, worked hard, worked well, was loyal and relatively unnoticed until he started not to compromise, not to go along with the flow. He decided to stand up, to not allow others expectations to influence his ideals of right or wrong. His faith ruled his decisions, not the culture or other people, or even concern for his own safety or employment.
Are you overwhelmed by the concerns of the crowd?
Does your faith influence your decisions and actions at work?
Is there some way you need to be more like Mordecai?
There is greater freedom in being like Mordecai, Haman’s life choices led to death - where are your choices leading you?
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