A DIFFERENT KIND OF KING
Then the king asked, “What is it, Queen Esther? What is your request? Even up to half the kingdom, it will be given you.” Esther 5:3
I turned 64 this year. I can’t believe it, really. I still feel like a young woman. I’ve got lots of spunk, love to play but also work hard, and I’ve got plenty of dreams I’m still pursuing. When I read this morning that the king asked Esther what it was she wanted, I was reminded that we can have different answers – depending on who is asking us the question.
If a distant friend calls us on our birthday, we’re content with just a phone call. If a relative asks us what they can give us, one with whom our relationship is strained, we will wrestle with our answer. We sense the gift is obligatory and possibly with strings attached. When asked by a spouse or child, we probably have no trouble coming to life and telling them what we really want! We know how their heart feels about us.
Esther was not in the presence of one with whom she was comfortable. She could have been put to death for even approaching the throne. How shocked she must have been by the presence of a king who was generous toward her. It could have gone the other way and she knew it.
I am moved by how different it is when we face our King. He gave the life of His own Son to make intimacy possible.
• Esther faced a proud, imperious man. We come to a loving and gracious Father.
• She faced her King upon threat of death. Our Father bids us ‘come’, and to ‘come confidently’.
• She had the law against her. We come dressed in grace.
• Esther had no one to plead her case. We have Jesus ~ who advocates for us before our Father.
I do not need to shrink back from asking God for anything today. He is anxiously anticipating my arrival to Him in prayer. I don’t need to make an appointment. He has made all the time in the world for me.
I’m not wringing my hands at the thought of coming before Your throne. My name is already on Your lips. Thank You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Originally published Thursday, 18 April 2019.
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