Observation: The first two chapters of Ester set the stage for what is to happen, telling the story of Xerxes' great banquet, the refusal of Vashti the queen to be displayed at it, and the process to select a replacement for her that results in Ester becoming queen. Interestingly, there are some strange details included in this introductory section, and two of them seem to jump out as peculiar.
The first peculiar detail is about people. NOT including the key people in the story - Xerxes, Vashti, Mordecai, and Ester - we are introduced by name to 16 other people who will have absolutely nothing to do with the story. In fact, of these 16, only two are of any consequence even to this part of the story ... Hegai the eunuch who helps Ester prepare, and Memukan the noble who recommends how to punish Vashti for her disrespect.
The second peculiar detail is that the number seven pops up three times. Seven is ... the number of servants sent to fetch Vashti, the number of nobles consulted about her refusal to attend the party, and the year of King Xerxes reign in which Ester becomes queen.
One of the famously interesting elements of the book of Ester is its inclusion in Jewish scriptures despite the fact it never once makes any reference to God. However, that isn't to say that Mordecai, as the author, isn't revealing the hand of the Lord throughout. These two peculiarities are nods to that. The number seven is considered special to the Lord as it comes up many times in association with the Lord. In addition, there is a respectfulness in Mordecai giving names to insignificant messengers and servants that is consistent with how the Lord loves all people, and can use the actions of all people to work toward his own purposes. It would seem these details as provided in the prologue of the story - the part that is setting up the true action - is a way for Mordecai to call out to the reader, "I am telling the story of Ester, but as you can see this is actually about the Lord's hands-on actions even in influencing foreign people in the foreign city of Susa."
Application: I am reminded today that the Lord can do anything, anywhere, anytime, using anyone. He doesn't just use faithful believers at church, but his purposes can be manifested on earth even through the words and actions of people who don't know he even exists (Persian eunuchs and pagan governors?) and in the most unexpected places (at a drunken party and within a king's harem??). In the end, everything follows his order and plan, right down to how many people show up at meetings, and the timing of when final decisions are made.
Do I "leave room" for the Lord to show up and structure the day-to-day things in my life, using whomever happens to be around? Am I prepared to celebrate and honor the Lord when his plan falls into place in unexpected places - like work - through unexpected people - like unbelieving coworkers - at any moment?
Prayer: Lord, again I pray for your forgiveness and strength today. May my mind focus on you, and in seeking you in every moment of my daily walk. I desire to again move closer to you today and every day. Amen.
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