01-31-26

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
January 31, 2026
What does it mean to be an ‘Esther 4’ kind of person? If you remember, in the Book of Esther, we find the Jewish people at a moment when their existence was threatened. Esther, a Jewish woman (though most folks did not realize she was Jewish), found herself in a place of privilege, yet there was still a risk if Esther was to speak out. Mordecai, her uncle, challenged her with the words…

“Do not think that in the king’s palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. For if you keep silent at this time,… you and your father’s family will perish. Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this” (4:13-14). 

Where is our place of privilege? Where can we become a voice for those who are suffering, even if there is a risk involved? When feeling overwhelmed, I often turn to the words of Thomas Reed, who served as Speaker of the House in the late 1800s. He said, “Being one, with God, is always a majority, but many a martyr has been burned at the stake while the votes were being counted.” Esther could have easily been a casualty in that time between speaking out and actually having what she said take root. Is it worth it? Great question! Of course, Esther didn’t hesitate, and neither did Jesus. Is this “just such a time” for you?

Whenever I find myself in a position of influence or with a platform from which I can speak, I earnestly seek the guidance of your Holy Spirit. Holy and Visionary God, it feels as though every moment could be another “just such a time” moment. Regrettably, this sentiment holds true, as we witness a recurring pattern in human history where the powers and principalities resist the teachings of Jesus—love, mercy, kindness, and justice. May I draw inspiration from Esther and others who have discovered the courage to pursue their spiritual vocation. If this is indeed my moment to share your Gospel, I do not wish to remain silent. Amen.