King Xerxes of Persia lived in his capital city of Susa and ruled one hundred twenty-seven provinces from India to Ethiopia. During the third year of his rule, Xerxes gave a big dinner for all his officials and officers. The governors and leaders of the provinces were also invited, and even the commanders of the Persian and Median armies came. For one hundred eighty days he showed off his wealth and spent a lot of money to impress his guests with the greatness of his kingdom. Esther 1:1,3-4
We are reminded, from many sources, that the name of Yahweh is not once mentioned in the book of Esther. We should not, then, be surprised at the debauched and narcissistic actions of the king. After all, when the presence of God disappears from national consciousness something will fill that void. As is often the case, Xerxes found himself “up to the task”.
And, the Jews did not generally take exception. These events occurred around 470BC...between chapters 6 and 7 of the book of Ezra. When King Cyrus allowed the Hebrews to return to Judaea, the majority remained in Persia. After decades of living there, many had assimilated and were comfortably satisfied. I suggest they were not wicked...just lukewarm about their destiny as God’s chosen people.
This begs the question: when we leave the path that leads to our destiny, how many ways can we go wrong? As we read through this short book we find the answer is, “countless”.
On the other hand, we find, although Yahweh disappeared from national consciousness...He did not disappear from the national stage. God is jealous for His people and will always be with them even when they are not with Him. When the evil leaders of Persia determined to destroy God’s children...He stepped in.
Persia is a metaphor for this earth. Just as the Hebrews were dwelling in Persia but Judaea was there home, you and I (as believers) merely dwell here on earth. Heaven is our home. And, our Persia is not measurably preferable to ancient Persia. It is debauched, depraved and devolved from every Godly standard. So, why would you and I be so intent on staying put? Have we convinced ourselves this is as good as it gets? Well, in this life...yes. Furthermore, I assure you, the time will come when you and I are regarded as enemies and will be the objects of destruction.
We don’t have the option to walk out the gate and head toward Heaven...as the Hebrews had with Judaea. But, if we did...would we go? We may be acceptably comfortable, even assimilated to life here on earth but a “Haman” is coming, who’s sole purpose is to destroy you in me. When that time comes, Heaven will look a whole lot more appealing. I suggest we begin our journey by lifting our eyes to the heavens now...imagining our citizenship in God’s glorious kingdom...so when the time comes we won’t be conflicted. We will eagerly seek our eternal destiny where “He will wipe every tear from [our] eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Rev 21:14
Live boldly out there today...
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