We have much to learn from Esther about how to make our needs known, especially if we are uncertain of getting a favourable response.

Queen Esther knows how to nurture good interpersonal relationships …

“There are six or seven kinds of people the Lord doesn’t like: Those who are too proud or tell lies or murder, those who make evil plans or are quick to do wrong, those who tell lies in court or stir up trouble in a family” (Proverbs 6:16-19).

Haman, proud and evil, fits this description.

“Save me. Save my people.” Esther makes her request known to the king, trusting the King’s care for her and his declared willingness to help.

“This is what I really want,” Esther says to underscore her request.

Haman’s death does not put an end to terror. The law enacted for the genocide of the Jewish people was still in play, ready to take place in the twelfth month of Adar. So even though the King passes on to Esther and Mordecai all of Haman’s wealth and makes Mordecai one of his highest officials, Esther urges the King to do the right thing.

Given the perversity of Persian law-making, once a law is enacted, it cannot be revoked. The first law enacted for the thirteenth day of Adar authorized the enemies of the Jews to kill and wipe them out. To countermand this first law, the second law enacted for the thirteenth day of Adar authorized the Jews to come together and to attack and kill their enemies – in defense of their lives.

The Book of Esther concludes with the chronicling of why Purim exists, how it was named “Purim,” and how it is to be celebrated by Jews in perpetuity. In essence, the text is a summary review of the entire Book of Esther!

In the dark night sky the Magi found a pinprick of light that pierced to the heart of their deepest longings. Packing up their treasure and risking their reputations, they set out on a journey inspired by hope – hope in the birth of a child who transcended the wisdom of the ages.