Rev. Don Campbell

Esther 6-10

THOUGHT FOR TODAY, September 24, 2019

“YOU IN YOUR CORNER AND I IN MINE”

When the exiles began returning from captivity, some stayed behind because they had made a life for themselves. They were not condemned for doing so but were to support the returnees (Ezra 1:4). They also had an opportunity to keep the knowledge of the one true God alive. Esther, Daniel, Mordecai, and undoubtedly many others who were scattered in the 127 provinces of the kingdom had a role that did not involve their return to the motherland. Many scholars, both Jewish and Christian, believe that the synagogue came into existence about this time. Peter said, “For from ancient generations Moses has had in every city those who proclaim him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues” (Acts 15:21). Luke tells us that there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven present. It was not just those who returned to build the temple who continued to worship God, but those who became known as the Dispersion who kept monotheism alive wherever they went (John 7:35).

We learned yesterday that Esther certainly had a mission, which was to prevent the genocide of her people. As queen, she had opportunities others did not have, but this did not mean they had no opportunities. Sometimes we may be waiting on that special opportunity for us to do great things and in so doing miss the opportunity to fulfill our providential mission, whatever it may be.

Peter addressed all who have been born again: “Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation” (1 Peter 2:11-12). We may not be an Esther, a Daniel, or a Mordecai, but we can shine for Christ wherever we are: “Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain” (Philippians 2:14-16).

A song by Susan Bogert Warner (1819-1885) was first published in “The Little Corporal,” a children’s magazine. However, the message of the song is for all of God’s children, young and old.

Jesus bids us shine,
With a pure, clear light,
Like a little candle,
Burning in the night.
In this world is darkness,
So let us shine–
You in your small corner,
And I in mine.

Jesus bids us shine,
Then, for all around
Many kinds of darkness
In this world are found –
Sin, and want, and sorrow;
So we must shine,
You in your small corner,
And I in mine.

Jesus reminds us, “Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house” (Matthew 5:15, KJV).

CONNECTIONS

1. In looking for the big opportunity, which probably will never come, do we overlook many little opportunities that can add up?

2. The Ugly American was a book written in 1958 about the failings of the American diplomatic corps. The term has since passed into our language as an expression of the rude, insensitive and childish behavior of some Americans in their interactions with the native peoples of the lands which they visit. Could some be dubbed “ugly Christians” because of their sectarian dispositions?

Jesus Bids Us Shine