Pray For the Peace of Jerusalem
Here is what most Biblical Scholars consider the pivotal chapter in the "Megillah" or The Scroll of Esther. At first, Esther follows all the rules and protocols of her position. She respects and stays within the law, by neither going out to Mordecai or letting him enter the gate in sackcloth. Although she would seem to be a "special" member of the King's harem, and indeed had been crowned Queen, that could come to an end just as easily as it had with Vashti's breach of protocol some time before. As a matter of fact, she hadn't been called to the King in over a month, and may have been unsure of her status.
Mordecai's response to her hesitation thunders through the ages. He speaks to those who have been fortunate enough to rise to high places in society, and the responsibilities that come with such elevation. Although the Name of God is not mentioned, His Omniscience, Omnipresence, and Omnipotence are implied. He knows the end from the beginning and the beginning from the end. He is present with the Jews in Persia, even though the Jews are surrounded by a huge pagan empire. And He is Almighty, able to move the King's heart and subsequent events.
Esther's response to this is epic. She asks her people to pray and fast for her, because she is going to follow her conscience even if it means breaking the law. Her words speak to us today: "If I perish, I perish."
Come and Pray For the Peace of Jerusalem, For Our FRiends in Need, For Persecuted Believers, and For Our Beloved Nation.
Blessings To All Who Visit This Garden of Prayer.
This Symbol Represents Christians in The Middle East, who desperately need our Prayers.
Hallelujah and Amen
ML/LTOS