When we read the story of Esther, we often judge Haman quite harshly. After all, he is the enemy of the heroine and he has an unhealthy lust for power and renown, but, isn’t he just a product of his environment?
Haman has grown up and succeeded in a community which is dominated by power and wealth. He lives in the city where there is this incredible show of opulence. The city is a bustling place with people of importance everywhere, and it would be difficult to miss the lavish show of the king’s riches. Even if we just consider the palace - decorated with rich materials, sparkling gemstones and golden goblets what a show of extravagance! Can you imagine living in a place surrounded by such wealth? Being constantly bombarded by sights of the wealth and prosperity? Haman is. He even has access to this palace, so he sees it everyday and he would have been aware of how many of these beautiful, expensive things have been gained - through violent and passionate means.
Haman knows the reputation of king Ahasuerus - a proud, greedy, passionate man whom gets what he wants at any cost. Haman has witnessed it, and heard many stories of the king’s ruthlessness. In this kingdom, ruthless selfishness is permissible and demonstrated by the most famous and revered person of the time. This city of Susa, and the whole region of Persia are ruled by passionate impulse and selfish desires, a me-first society, so is it any wonder that Haman is ruthless in his pursuits too?
Haman has been surrounded by this system where anything goes, so isn’t he merely a product of his environment?
Haman has learned to play a part in this kingdom, he has realised that, to get the best in life, you need to get as close to the king as possible, at any cost. Haman knows that winning the king’s favour will benefit himself and his family. It will mean greater renown, respect and revenue. He knows king Ahasuerus promotes those who align themselves with him, who work to satisfy the king’s passions' and that the king is more interested in results than the manner in which they are achieved. Possessions, riches and authority are the top priority in this kingdom. Haman acknowledges this and unsurprisingly has developed the same mindset - to get what he wants, any methods are acceptable.
When we consider this character of Human, we often see a man whom we hate. Someone we feel disgusted with and whom we see evil in. That may be true, but is it fair for us to judge at all?
I am sure we can all think of people that we dislike, who we don't get along with, whose methods we think are disagreeable or even despicable. Yet, are we even aware of their influences? upbringing? expectations? Like Haman, have they been indoctrinated in a culture or society where certain things are allowable, acceptable or expected?
Do you judge people as unworthy and unacceptable because of their characteristics, personality or choices? Jesus doesn't.
Jesus came to forgive everyone who accepts Him, he even went our to meet the most unacceptable people of his culture - those who were detested by the Jews, those who lived lives of depravity and deceit - He invited them into relationship.
So, my question to you this week is; are you willing to be like Jesus and accept the unacceptable? to form relationships with those who don't match up to your idea of a friend? Are you willing to share who Jesus is to you to those you think least deserve it? You never know, you might be giving a Haman the chance to redeem his life. You might be giving Saul the chance to transform into Paul. You never know whose life you may influence when you treat people like Jesus does.
Thursday, 17 October 2019
Thursday, 10 October 2019
strength of submission
- Throughout chapter 2 of Esther, we find out something beautiful about her character that set her apart from the rest of the women around her. We can see this character trait in the way she responds to; her cousin Mordecai, Hegai the eunuch, and to King Ahasuerus. In all of these relationships, Esther is submissive.
- Now, this is not a word many of us like to hear. Yet, this is something that stands out in Esther’s character. Just have a look a the following few verses to see what I mean:
-
Esther had not made known her people or kindred, for Mordecai had commanded her not to make it known
Esther 2:10.
she asked for nothing except what Hegai the king’s eunuch, who had charge of the women, advised
Esther 2:15.
Esther obeyed Mordecai just as when she was brought up by him
Esther 2:20.
Do you see what I mean? Esther is submissive to those around her, she clearly has a healthy respect for those in authority. She is obedient, not proud or entitled, but compliant and content. The submission displayed by Esther is definitely seen as a strength, it is what ultimately wins her favour. Esther’s compliance, her acknowledgement that she doesn’t know best, her ability to be led and taught are all beautiful characteristics that far outweigh her physical beauty.
Yet, who of us would like to be submissive?
None of us, I should imagine, would see submission as a desirable characteristic for a person, let alone for a woman or a queen!
After all, submission is about giving in to others, giving up your own desires, allowing others authority over your life. We usually consider submission as a weakness - an inability to make up your own mind, make decisions or be too scared to. Submission is to something that we desire, instead we desire independence. We want authority over our own lives, and preferably over others too, we want to have our desires met, and our voices heard sometimes at the expense (not benefit) of others. This is what we consider strength to be - to be seen and heard and noticed.
However, Esther lives in a place where it is easy to be overlooked, unnoticed and unheard, yet in her simple submission to these circumstances, the fact that she is not screaming or shouting about it, but simply being obedient, that is the very thing that causes her to stand out.
*Submission is a powerful tool.*
- In the days live in we are taught and empowered to be independent, to do our own thing, have it ‘my way’. We are supported to know that our emotions, views and opinions matter, and we are educated that we should be heard. Yet here, in ancient Persia, we see a woman being elevated for exactly the opposite quality. Persia, by what we’ve read so far, doesn’t seem wildly different to world we live in; they also have worldly leaders out for themselves, sin and debauchery is as obvious as it is today, there are liars and selfish people, immigrants, wars, marriage and divorce, just like we do. Amongst all of this life that’s going on, with people out to get what they want, is it any wonder that a beautiful, young woman, who just gets on with life, listening and obeying the instructions of her elders stands out?
Esther honours and respects those in authority by listening and being obedient, therefore she wins their trust. She does not talk behind anyones back, complain or bemoan her situation, she just gets on with it. She is not ashamed to take advice, she follows instructions and she doesn’t seem to get upset or offended by it. Is it any wonder that, ‘she won grace and favour in his sight’ (v17).
If you want t win favour, have you considered the strength of submission?
- Now, this is not a word many of us like to hear. Yet, this is something that stands out in Esther’s character. Just have a look a the following few verses to see what I mean:
-
Esther had not made known her people or kindred, for Mordecai had commanded her not to make it known
Esther 2:10.
she asked for nothing except what Hegai the king’s eunuch, who had charge of the women, advised
Esther 2:15.
Esther obeyed Mordecai just as when she was brought up by him
Esther 2:20.
Do you see what I mean? Esther is submissive to those around her, she clearly has a healthy respect for those in authority. She is obedient, not proud or entitled, but compliant and content. The submission displayed by Esther is definitely seen as a strength, it is what ultimately wins her favour. Esther’s compliance, her acknowledgement that she doesn’t know best, her ability to be led and taught are all beautiful characteristics that far outweigh her physical beauty.
Yet, who of us would like to be submissive?
None of us, I should imagine, would see submission as a desirable characteristic for a person, let alone for a woman or a queen!
After all, submission is about giving in to others, giving up your own desires, allowing others authority over your life. We usually consider submission as a weakness - an inability to make up your own mind, make decisions or be too scared to. Submission is to something that we desire, instead we desire independence. We want authority over our own lives, and preferably over others too, we want to have our desires met, and our voices heard sometimes at the expense (not benefit) of others. This is what we consider strength to be - to be seen and heard and noticed.
However, Esther lives in a place where it is easy to be overlooked, unnoticed and unheard, yet in her simple submission to these circumstances, the fact that she is not screaming or shouting about it, but simply being obedient, that is the very thing that causes her to stand out.
*Submission is a powerful tool.*
- In the days live in we are taught and empowered to be independent, to do our own thing, have it ‘my way’. We are supported to know that our emotions, views and opinions matter, and we are educated that we should be heard. Yet here, in ancient Persia, we see a woman being elevated for exactly the opposite quality. Persia, by what we’ve read so far, doesn’t seem wildly different to world we live in; they also have worldly leaders out for themselves, sin and debauchery is as obvious as it is today, there are liars and selfish people, immigrants, wars, marriage and divorce, just like we do. Amongst all of this life that’s going on, with people out to get what they want, is it any wonder that a beautiful, young woman, who just gets on with life, listening and obeying the instructions of her elders stands out?
Esther honours and respects those in authority by listening and being obedient, therefore she wins their trust. She does not talk behind anyones back, complain or bemoan her situation, she just gets on with it. She is not ashamed to take advice, she follows instructions and she doesn’t seem to get upset or offended by it. Is it any wonder that, ‘she won grace and favour in his sight’ (v17).
If you want t win favour, have you considered the strength of submission?
Thursday, 3 October 2019
Are you favoured?
When we consider the story of Esther, we usually consider it a triumphant story, a story of a heroine, a story of triumph and freedom. Yet here, at the beginning of the book, we hear that Esther is an orphan, she’s been taken in by her cousin as a daughter (he’s clearly much older than her). We also discover that Mordecai and Esther are Jews historically means that their family in generations past were once exiled to this place. Therefore they are not exactly welcomed or appreciated where they live, hence they are wary of telling others their true heritage.
Do you ever feel like that? Like an outsider? Like you don’t belong? A bit of an underdog? Maybe you are. Maybe your family heritage is questionable, perhaps your upbringing wasn’t conventional, or the opportunities presented to you are few. What we can learn from Esther is that it’s ok to have a bit of a disadvantage, because that doesn’t effect who you are or who you can be.
As we read further on into chapter 2, we see this strange competition to become the queen. Quite a strange affair we may think according to our society today, but not so strange in these times in Persia. Every beautiful young virgin is brought into the king’s living area, beautified and then presented to the king for one night only in order to impress him, they are then put into another area to live the rest of their days unless the king calls upon them again. I can’t even imagine what that would be like - No family or friends around, only the other discarded women of the king that didn’t impress him enough, having to live the whole of the rest of your life in this place. No chance of escape, marriage or family of your own, just living a life ‘on hold’ for the king in case he should want to see you again, but he probably won’t. It’s sad isn’t it, most of us probably see it as quite demoralising. Yet it is into this environment we find Esther entering. She, along with any others, are selected as potential wives for the king.
What a degrading position to be put into as a beautiful young woman, basically prepped and prepared to sleep with a man who most probably will never speak to you again, yet I doubt these women had any choice. It was a nation-wide selection process and these women had been chosen and were brought to live in the confines of the king’s harem.
Then we see Esther, having entered into this situation that seems desperate, immoral and lonely, gaining favour with the man in charge. There is something about Esther that stands out, that rises above those around her and something in her character that establishes her as a favoured one in the harem. How does she do that?
Well, we know from Chapter 2 that she was a Jew - a believer in God. Was it her dependence on God that enabled her to gain favour?
Esther was honoured and appreciated even in this debauched environment, and maybe that is exactly why she won favour because she was someone who had faith in God amongst a whole lot of immorality.
Are you honoured and favoured by those around you no matter the circumstances you are in? Are you one that’s noticed? Are you someone that stands out because of your character?
Do you ever feel like that? Like an outsider? Like you don’t belong? A bit of an underdog? Maybe you are. Maybe your family heritage is questionable, perhaps your upbringing wasn’t conventional, or the opportunities presented to you are few. What we can learn from Esther is that it’s ok to have a bit of a disadvantage, because that doesn’t effect who you are or who you can be.
As we read further on into chapter 2, we see this strange competition to become the queen. Quite a strange affair we may think according to our society today, but not so strange in these times in Persia. Every beautiful young virgin is brought into the king’s living area, beautified and then presented to the king for one night only in order to impress him, they are then put into another area to live the rest of their days unless the king calls upon them again. I can’t even imagine what that would be like - No family or friends around, only the other discarded women of the king that didn’t impress him enough, having to live the whole of the rest of your life in this place. No chance of escape, marriage or family of your own, just living a life ‘on hold’ for the king in case he should want to see you again, but he probably won’t. It’s sad isn’t it, most of us probably see it as quite demoralising. Yet it is into this environment we find Esther entering. She, along with any others, are selected as potential wives for the king.
What a degrading position to be put into as a beautiful young woman, basically prepped and prepared to sleep with a man who most probably will never speak to you again, yet I doubt these women had any choice. It was a nation-wide selection process and these women had been chosen and were brought to live in the confines of the king’s harem.
Then we see Esther, having entered into this situation that seems desperate, immoral and lonely, gaining favour with the man in charge. There is something about Esther that stands out, that rises above those around her and something in her character that establishes her as a favoured one in the harem. How does she do that?
Well, we know from Chapter 2 that she was a Jew - a believer in God. Was it her dependence on God that enabled her to gain favour?
Esther was honoured and appreciated even in this debauched environment, and maybe that is exactly why she won favour because she was someone who had faith in God amongst a whole lot of immorality.
Are you honoured and favoured by those around you no matter the circumstances you are in? Are you one that’s noticed? Are you someone that stands out because of your character?
Wednesday, 25 September 2019
Dealing with the fallout
After these things, when the anger of King Ahasuerus had abated, he remembered Vashti and what she had done and what had been decreed against her.
Esther 2:1
The problem with responding in anger is that you often regret your decision afterwards. The king clearly regrets his, yet he knows there’s no going back. Even if the king had wanted to return to his relationship with Vashti, and was able to overcome the new laws and his own pride, would Vashti have accepted?
Highly-charged emotional reactions, whether made in excitement or anger, effect more than our own lives, they effect relationships and possibly the choices we have in the future. It’s not only that, but everyone touched by our decisions has to bear the consequences and you can never truly go back to how things were before. Once words are spoken they cannot be unsaid and actions taken cannot be undone. That’s what Ahasuerus was finding out. It takes but a moment to break a relationship and it can take years to restore one, maybe even a lifetime.
Even if you are forgiven and never discuss the event again, the pain and memory still exist and trust has been damaged, sadly there’s no rewind button in life where you can just redo the scene again.
In this situation with Ahasuerus and Vashti, things are too far gone to be repaired. She has been banished from his presence, so even if they wanted to, they cannot get back together and work things out. It is sad isn’t it. There are ways to avoid this happening for yourself, ways to avoid the loneliness and the fallout, is there a change you need to make today? Is there a relationship in your life that needs restoration? Is there someone you need to forgive? And if you’re not sure how to get started, pray.
Esther 2:1
The problem with responding in anger is that you often regret your decision afterwards. The king clearly regrets his, yet he knows there’s no going back. Even if the king had wanted to return to his relationship with Vashti, and was able to overcome the new laws and his own pride, would Vashti have accepted?
Highly-charged emotional reactions, whether made in excitement or anger, effect more than our own lives, they effect relationships and possibly the choices we have in the future. It’s not only that, but everyone touched by our decisions has to bear the consequences and you can never truly go back to how things were before. Once words are spoken they cannot be unsaid and actions taken cannot be undone. That’s what Ahasuerus was finding out. It takes but a moment to break a relationship and it can take years to restore one, maybe even a lifetime.
Even if you are forgiven and never discuss the event again, the pain and memory still exist and trust has been damaged, sadly there’s no rewind button in life where you can just redo the scene again.
In this situation with Ahasuerus and Vashti, things are too far gone to be repaired. She has been banished from his presence, so even if they wanted to, they cannot get back together and work things out. It is sad isn’t it. There are ways to avoid this happening for yourself, ways to avoid the loneliness and the fallout, is there a change you need to make today? Is there a relationship in your life that needs restoration? Is there someone you need to forgive? And if you’re not sure how to get started, pray.
Thursday, 19 September 2019
Watch your reactions
On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha and Abagtha, Zethar and Carkas, the seven eunuchs who served in the presence of King Ahasuerus, *11*to bring Queen Vashti before the king with her royal crown, in order to show the peoples and the princes her beauty, for she was lovely to look at. *12*But Queen Vashti refused to come at the king’s command delivered by the eunuchs. At this the king became enraged, and his anger burned within him.
*13*Then the king said to the wise men who knew the times (for this was the king’s procedure toward all who were versed in law and judgment, *14*the men next to him being Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, who saw the king’s face, and sat first in the kingdom): *15*“According to the law, what is to be done to Queen Vashti, because she has not performed the command of King Ahasuerus delivered by the eunuchs?”
Esther 1:10–15.
The culmination of all of the festivities where king Ahasuerus has celebrated and shown off his land, possessions and wealth is that the king desires to show off his wife. It is like she is the crowning glory of his worth - she is a beauty and the king wants everyone to see and admire her. Yet, this man, who commands great power and authority over armies, princes and his country cannot summon his wife.
Can you imagine how that feels?
King Ahasuerus is refused by his own wife. He is clearly a rich, proud man, in control of his country, yet over his own wife he does not have the same power. Can you imagine the embarrassment? No wonder he was outraged, he was able to command the eunuchs to go and get her, yet he could not command her. This mighty king who has conquered nations does not seem to of conquered his wife’s heart, and he certainly has no power to control her mind or actions. He has an expectation of acquiescence, respect and duty from his subjects, and he expects the same from his wife.
Her refusal infuriates him, so what does he do? He does just what you or I would, and talks to those closest to him - his trusty advisers. He gathers those who know him, yet he comes with an agenda. When you are affronted, what is your response? It is natural, and good to talk it over with our friends, and there’s something about having a good moan which helps get it off our chest - we like to have a bit of a whinge and we expect our close ones to appease our emotions, just like king Ahasuerus does. His advisers do relieve his anger by coming up with a radical course of action that not only impacts this moment, this event, or just their marriage, but the whole nation. The problem is, the king was ‘enraged’, had been drinking and came to the issue with an agenda, ‘“According to the law, what is to be done to Queen Vashti’? He didn’t want restoration, he didn’t take responsibility for his own actions, he just wanted the other party to be punished ‘according to the law’. Which, to me implies, ‘what extreme punishment can I get away with without breaking the law?’.
This reaction may sound extreme, but we all have to be aware of our own highly charged emotional responses. Sometimes, as much as we love, respect, and trust our friends, they don’t always help our situations. If our trusted ones just agree with us and placate us, are they really being our friends or just sounding boards? Sometimes our viewpoint, feelings or reactions need to be challenged. The king here does not seem to have one man present who actually challenges his response, not one who attempts restoration for this marriage, no-one who advises waiting until he is sober and less emotionally-charged. No-one has even suggested that the husband and wife speak to each other, they just go along with the feelings of the king, swept along by anger and drink, to come to a conclusion that far outweighs the original offence. Do you ever find yourself int he same situation? Where your emotions are high and those around you exacerbate those feelings or expand the depth of what has occurred? Those around the king ended up turning an embarrassing denial into a national issue.
Who held the king to account? Who suggested that he may of been unreasonable? There is no voice that opposes the king’s view.
This is a warning to each of us - are your friends those that will always attempt to appease your emotions without challenging your perspective? Is there anyone that you sometimes get annoyed with because they don’t always think you’re right? If so, keep them close, they are a true friend trying to lead you well. We don’t like to be wrong, and we don’t like to be told we are at fault, but imagine if this king had someone who advised a different course of action. The marriage may well of been restored and the nation would of not had new laws. Instead of a flood of emotion being poured out, a ripple may of been felt but no more than that.
Next time you are overrun with your emotions choose who you talk to carefully, you may be in the right in your responses, but is there anyone around you who would challenge your point of view? Keep those who do close because they have the best intentions not just for yourself but those around you too. Don’t be like king Ahasuerus who surrounds himself by yes men, those who will do his bidding and agree with him unconditionally, who even justify and promote his emotional rulings.
This king made life-long, nation-wide decisions based on a moment of rage. His decision was not considered. He did not wait until his head had cool, in fact he was encouraged in his quick response by those closest to him.
When you are in an emotional state it is good to discuss with those you trust, but also wait until the extent of your emotions subside before making decisions. Be careful and choose your close advisers wisely. Your emotional response may be correct, but don’t be swayed by how you feel without considering and researching the facts. Base your decisions on the truth, not on an immediate feeling.
*13*Then the king said to the wise men who knew the times (for this was the king’s procedure toward all who were versed in law and judgment, *14*the men next to him being Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, and Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, who saw the king’s face, and sat first in the kingdom): *15*“According to the law, what is to be done to Queen Vashti, because she has not performed the command of King Ahasuerus delivered by the eunuchs?”
Esther 1:10–15.
The culmination of all of the festivities where king Ahasuerus has celebrated and shown off his land, possessions and wealth is that the king desires to show off his wife. It is like she is the crowning glory of his worth - she is a beauty and the king wants everyone to see and admire her. Yet, this man, who commands great power and authority over armies, princes and his country cannot summon his wife.
Can you imagine how that feels?
King Ahasuerus is refused by his own wife. He is clearly a rich, proud man, in control of his country, yet over his own wife he does not have the same power. Can you imagine the embarrassment? No wonder he was outraged, he was able to command the eunuchs to go and get her, yet he could not command her. This mighty king who has conquered nations does not seem to of conquered his wife’s heart, and he certainly has no power to control her mind or actions. He has an expectation of acquiescence, respect and duty from his subjects, and he expects the same from his wife.
Her refusal infuriates him, so what does he do? He does just what you or I would, and talks to those closest to him - his trusty advisers. He gathers those who know him, yet he comes with an agenda. When you are affronted, what is your response? It is natural, and good to talk it over with our friends, and there’s something about having a good moan which helps get it off our chest - we like to have a bit of a whinge and we expect our close ones to appease our emotions, just like king Ahasuerus does. His advisers do relieve his anger by coming up with a radical course of action that not only impacts this moment, this event, or just their marriage, but the whole nation. The problem is, the king was ‘enraged’, had been drinking and came to the issue with an agenda, ‘“According to the law, what is to be done to Queen Vashti’? He didn’t want restoration, he didn’t take responsibility for his own actions, he just wanted the other party to be punished ‘according to the law’. Which, to me implies, ‘what extreme punishment can I get away with without breaking the law?’.
This reaction may sound extreme, but we all have to be aware of our own highly charged emotional responses. Sometimes, as much as we love, respect, and trust our friends, they don’t always help our situations. If our trusted ones just agree with us and placate us, are they really being our friends or just sounding boards? Sometimes our viewpoint, feelings or reactions need to be challenged. The king here does not seem to have one man present who actually challenges his response, not one who attempts restoration for this marriage, no-one who advises waiting until he is sober and less emotionally-charged. No-one has even suggested that the husband and wife speak to each other, they just go along with the feelings of the king, swept along by anger and drink, to come to a conclusion that far outweighs the original offence. Do you ever find yourself int he same situation? Where your emotions are high and those around you exacerbate those feelings or expand the depth of what has occurred? Those around the king ended up turning an embarrassing denial into a national issue.
Who held the king to account? Who suggested that he may of been unreasonable? There is no voice that opposes the king’s view.
This is a warning to each of us - are your friends those that will always attempt to appease your emotions without challenging your perspective? Is there anyone that you sometimes get annoyed with because they don’t always think you’re right? If so, keep them close, they are a true friend trying to lead you well. We don’t like to be wrong, and we don’t like to be told we are at fault, but imagine if this king had someone who advised a different course of action. The marriage may well of been restored and the nation would of not had new laws. Instead of a flood of emotion being poured out, a ripple may of been felt but no more than that.
Next time you are overrun with your emotions choose who you talk to carefully, you may be in the right in your responses, but is there anyone around you who would challenge your point of view? Keep those who do close because they have the best intentions not just for yourself but those around you too. Don’t be like king Ahasuerus who surrounds himself by yes men, those who will do his bidding and agree with him unconditionally, who even justify and promote his emotional rulings.
This king made life-long, nation-wide decisions based on a moment of rage. His decision was not considered. He did not wait until his head had cool, in fact he was encouraged in his quick response by those closest to him.
When you are in an emotional state it is good to discuss with those you trust, but also wait until the extent of your emotions subside before making decisions. Be careful and choose your close advisers wisely. Your emotional response may be correct, but don’t be swayed by how you feel without considering and researching the facts. Base your decisions on the truth, not on an immediate feeling.
Thursday, 12 September 2019
what's your wealth?
So, as we have now come t the end of the book of Ecclesiastes, it’s time to start a new one. This time, it’ll be Esther as suggested by a friend, so this week we will just go through the introductory bit which sets the scene;
Now in the days of Ahasuerus, the Ahasuerus who reigned from India to Ethiopia over 127 provinces, *2*in those days when King Ahasuerus sat on his royal throne in Susa, the citadel, *3*in the third year of his reign he gave a feast for all his officials and servants. The army of Persia and Media and the nobles and governors of the provinces were before him, *4*while he showed the riches of his royal glory and the splendor and pomp of his greatness for many days, 180 days. *5*And when these days were completed, the king gave for all the people present in Susa the citadel, both great and small, a feast lasting for seven days in the court of the garden of the king’s palace. *6*There were white cotton curtains and violet hangings fastened with cords of fine linen and purple to silver rods and marble pillars, and also couches of gold and silver on a mosaic pavement of porphyry, marble, mother-of-pearl, and precious stones. *7*Drinks were served in golden vessels, vessels of different kinds, and the royal wine was lavished according to the bounty of the king. *8*And drinking was according to this edict: “There is no compulsion.” For the king had given orders to all the staff of his palace to do as each man desired. *9*Queen Vashti also gave a feast for the women in the palace that belonged to King Ahasuerus.
Esther 1:1–9.
So, what do you make of that?!
Basically, the king Ahasuerus, who reigned over 127 areas gave a huge party lasting 180days, that’s almost half a year! For half a year, this king showed off his wealth, possessions, land and household to those he entrusted with power and authority. Can you imagine partying for 6months? Having 6 months with your boss whilst others carry your workload. It sounds kind of ludicrous doesn’t it? just a bit over-the-top?
Then, we can consider the luxury of the place - even the floor is impressive, the stuff people walk over with their dusty feet sparkles with jewels. The whole scene is extravagant. There are coverings, abundance of provisions, expensive fabric, couches of gold and silver, even the cups were made of gold. I mean, I don’t know how much more this king could of done to demonstrate his wealth! It’s lavish, he is clearly a man of authority and power as well as great monetary worth.
So, to what purpose has he put his riches?
In this scene he’s clearly spent it on stuff, impressive possessions, he is showing off what he has, and he takes half a year to do so! He must think a lot of himself, not unreasonably really, due to his position of power.
Yet, to what purpose does he think he has all this? It seems that he is using what he has to; enjoy it, show his greatness and glory in his own worth. He has the idea that all of these things are his and his alone, he shows others what he has, but he doesn’t seem to give anything that he has, his possessions remain his, others may look at them, but he doesn’t seem to be sharing the richness of his kingdom.
I know, in life, many of us will fail to feel an ounce of wealth like this king has, yet we are all wealthy in our own ways. Maybe you are; wise, faithful, patient, studious, creative, genuine, or maybe you do have an overflow of cash. We all have areas of life that we have worth and wealth in, so how are you using them? Are you, like this king, appreciating the good things that you have, which you definitely should, but are you just keeping them to yourself? Do others benefit from the richness you have? it doesn’t have to be in big, flashy ways like this king has done, but if you have a gift of hospitality, do you open your home to others? Do you help others learn if you’re knowledgeable about something? Do you sit and listen with patience to those who need a friend? You don’t need to do all of these things, but you have this wealth for purpose, these God-given gifts are placed into your hands to be used beyond yourself, so how are you doing that?
Now in the days of Ahasuerus, the Ahasuerus who reigned from India to Ethiopia over 127 provinces, *2*in those days when King Ahasuerus sat on his royal throne in Susa, the citadel, *3*in the third year of his reign he gave a feast for all his officials and servants. The army of Persia and Media and the nobles and governors of the provinces were before him, *4*while he showed the riches of his royal glory and the splendor and pomp of his greatness for many days, 180 days. *5*And when these days were completed, the king gave for all the people present in Susa the citadel, both great and small, a feast lasting for seven days in the court of the garden of the king’s palace. *6*There were white cotton curtains and violet hangings fastened with cords of fine linen and purple to silver rods and marble pillars, and also couches of gold and silver on a mosaic pavement of porphyry, marble, mother-of-pearl, and precious stones. *7*Drinks were served in golden vessels, vessels of different kinds, and the royal wine was lavished according to the bounty of the king. *8*And drinking was according to this edict: “There is no compulsion.” For the king had given orders to all the staff of his palace to do as each man desired. *9*Queen Vashti also gave a feast for the women in the palace that belonged to King Ahasuerus.
Esther 1:1–9.
So, what do you make of that?!
Basically, the king Ahasuerus, who reigned over 127 areas gave a huge party lasting 180days, that’s almost half a year! For half a year, this king showed off his wealth, possessions, land and household to those he entrusted with power and authority. Can you imagine partying for 6months? Having 6 months with your boss whilst others carry your workload. It sounds kind of ludicrous doesn’t it? just a bit over-the-top?
Then, we can consider the luxury of the place - even the floor is impressive, the stuff people walk over with their dusty feet sparkles with jewels. The whole scene is extravagant. There are coverings, abundance of provisions, expensive fabric, couches of gold and silver, even the cups were made of gold. I mean, I don’t know how much more this king could of done to demonstrate his wealth! It’s lavish, he is clearly a man of authority and power as well as great monetary worth.
So, to what purpose has he put his riches?
In this scene he’s clearly spent it on stuff, impressive possessions, he is showing off what he has, and he takes half a year to do so! He must think a lot of himself, not unreasonably really, due to his position of power.
Yet, to what purpose does he think he has all this? It seems that he is using what he has to; enjoy it, show his greatness and glory in his own worth. He has the idea that all of these things are his and his alone, he shows others what he has, but he doesn’t seem to give anything that he has, his possessions remain his, others may look at them, but he doesn’t seem to be sharing the richness of his kingdom.
I know, in life, many of us will fail to feel an ounce of wealth like this king has, yet we are all wealthy in our own ways. Maybe you are; wise, faithful, patient, studious, creative, genuine, or maybe you do have an overflow of cash. We all have areas of life that we have worth and wealth in, so how are you using them? Are you, like this king, appreciating the good things that you have, which you definitely should, but are you just keeping them to yourself? Do others benefit from the richness you have? it doesn’t have to be in big, flashy ways like this king has done, but if you have a gift of hospitality, do you open your home to others? Do you help others learn if you’re knowledgeable about something? Do you sit and listen with patience to those who need a friend? You don’t need to do all of these things, but you have this wealth for purpose, these God-given gifts are placed into your hands to be used beyond yourself, so how are you doing that?
Thursday, 5 September 2019
what's good about getting older?
‘Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near of which you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”; *2*before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars are darkened and the clouds return after the rain, *3*in the day when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men are bent, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those who look through the windows are dimmed, *4*and the doors on the street are shut—when the sound of the grinding is low, and one rises up at the sound of a bird, and all the daughters of song are brought low— *5*they are afraid also of what is high, and terrors are in the way; the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper drags itself along, and desire fails, because man is going to his eternal home, and the mourners go about the streets— *6*before the silver cord is snapped, or the golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher is shattered at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern, *7*and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.’
Ecclesiastes 12:1–7.
As I have read this section of scripture over and again, the metaphor of the body being a decrepit house intrigues and saddens me - the reality of the declining years, the gradual loss of senses and abilities, especially the ones most of s take for granted. It is a sad reality that this earthly vessel, this physical body which we rely so much upon is in decline. The older it gets, the more worn out it becomes, and as it does we are reminded of our frailty and mortality.
So, what is this house/body metaphor saying? Well, first off, it seems that there’s not a lot to look forward to as the days of life increase. In fact, these verses talk about the stormy seasons just never really coming to an end (‘the clouds return after the rain,’). As one storm passes, another begins. It seems that there is always some kind of sadness, loss, difficulty to be met with, and they occur one after another.
Then you have to deal with the fact that your limbs (‘keepers of the house’) do not work as they used to and; teeth fall out, vision and hearing become impaired, hair goes grey, you wake up early and your voice can become trembly. Doesn’t sound like a lot of fun does it? The simple everyday enjoyments become more difficult; eating, sleeping, walking, sleeping - they all have their hindrances. It seems like life drags along in this way with ever decreasing abilities and the perpetual reminder that life is ending, but without the knowledge of when it will all actually end. It’s like being in a waiting room, knowing you’re on the list, but you don’t know when exactly your turn will be.
Don’t you think this all sounds quite sad and a bit scary? It certainly doesn’t make you want to grow old does it - all this talk of the failings of the human body? I know we don’t like to dwell upon these things, we like to somehow think it won’t happen to us, or just ignore the fact that we are getting older and deny the fact that these things are going to happen. Luckily, this advancing in age is a gradual process. `It does not suddenly occur as in the space of the few lines we have just read. It is a gradual wearing out of the finite vessel we reside in on Earth. It is a slow degradation of the body. It happens bit by bit, not all in one go, yet, it’s still sad and scary and as I read this, I don’t want to think that all this could happen to me, I don’t want to lose teeth, or totter about. Yet, even if some or all of these telling signs of the wearing out of the body do occur to you and I, we have to remember that this is not in fact the culmination of life. The story doesn’t end with the dismal tale of deterioration. This is not the end.
As we can see from these verses, once, ‘the silver cord is snapped’, and life as we know it has ended, there is something else to come. There IS something to look forward to other than the slow deterioration of a worn out vessel. In fact, all of these incidences, all of these worn out body parts are a reminder that, ‘man is going to his eternal home’. This is why our bodies break down and don’t work as efficiently, to remind us that this is not where we are permanently fixed. We are all going to live beyond this life.
So, the advancement of age should not hold us in fear as we know that we have an eternal future that has been promised. Instead, as our body shows it’s advanced years, we should celebrate that our time in this earthly vessel is coming to an end, and the reality of getting a new, upgraded body that will not lose teeth, go grey or limp around is getting closer. As life on Earth ends, our life in eternity begins.
So, the next time you realise your body may not be working in the way you want it to, you get aches or pains, remember, you are actually a step closer to meeting your maker. Each little reminder that your body is decaying is a snippet of hope that one day you will be free from this vessel and enjoying the glory of God on a whole new level. The end here is the beginning of a new existence. You are preparing to be upgraded and advancing on the next level, free from the outdated body you’re in, with the promise of a new one and the promise that, in Jesus, you have a new hope waiting.
Ecclesiastes 12:1–7.
As I have read this section of scripture over and again, the metaphor of the body being a decrepit house intrigues and saddens me - the reality of the declining years, the gradual loss of senses and abilities, especially the ones most of s take for granted. It is a sad reality that this earthly vessel, this physical body which we rely so much upon is in decline. The older it gets, the more worn out it becomes, and as it does we are reminded of our frailty and mortality.
So, what is this house/body metaphor saying? Well, first off, it seems that there’s not a lot to look forward to as the days of life increase. In fact, these verses talk about the stormy seasons just never really coming to an end (‘the clouds return after the rain,’). As one storm passes, another begins. It seems that there is always some kind of sadness, loss, difficulty to be met with, and they occur one after another.
Then you have to deal with the fact that your limbs (‘keepers of the house’) do not work as they used to and; teeth fall out, vision and hearing become impaired, hair goes grey, you wake up early and your voice can become trembly. Doesn’t sound like a lot of fun does it? The simple everyday enjoyments become more difficult; eating, sleeping, walking, sleeping - they all have their hindrances. It seems like life drags along in this way with ever decreasing abilities and the perpetual reminder that life is ending, but without the knowledge of when it will all actually end. It’s like being in a waiting room, knowing you’re on the list, but you don’t know when exactly your turn will be.
Don’t you think this all sounds quite sad and a bit scary? It certainly doesn’t make you want to grow old does it - all this talk of the failings of the human body? I know we don’t like to dwell upon these things, we like to somehow think it won’t happen to us, or just ignore the fact that we are getting older and deny the fact that these things are going to happen. Luckily, this advancing in age is a gradual process. `It does not suddenly occur as in the space of the few lines we have just read. It is a gradual wearing out of the finite vessel we reside in on Earth. It is a slow degradation of the body. It happens bit by bit, not all in one go, yet, it’s still sad and scary and as I read this, I don’t want to think that all this could happen to me, I don’t want to lose teeth, or totter about. Yet, even if some or all of these telling signs of the wearing out of the body do occur to you and I, we have to remember that this is not in fact the culmination of life. The story doesn’t end with the dismal tale of deterioration. This is not the end.
As we can see from these verses, once, ‘the silver cord is snapped’, and life as we know it has ended, there is something else to come. There IS something to look forward to other than the slow deterioration of a worn out vessel. In fact, all of these incidences, all of these worn out body parts are a reminder that, ‘man is going to his eternal home’. This is why our bodies break down and don’t work as efficiently, to remind us that this is not where we are permanently fixed. We are all going to live beyond this life.
So, the advancement of age should not hold us in fear as we know that we have an eternal future that has been promised. Instead, as our body shows it’s advanced years, we should celebrate that our time in this earthly vessel is coming to an end, and the reality of getting a new, upgraded body that will not lose teeth, go grey or limp around is getting closer. As life on Earth ends, our life in eternity begins.
So, the next time you realise your body may not be working in the way you want it to, you get aches or pains, remember, you are actually a step closer to meeting your maker. Each little reminder that your body is decaying is a snippet of hope that one day you will be free from this vessel and enjoying the glory of God on a whole new level. The end here is the beginning of a new existence. You are preparing to be upgraded and advancing on the next level, free from the outdated body you’re in, with the promise of a new one and the promise that, in Jesus, you have a new hope waiting.
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