Messengers of Hope
So Hathach went out to Mordecai in the square in front of the palace gate. Esther 4:6 NLT
The story of Esther shows us a time of deep crisis for God’s people. Mordecai was in the city square, dressed in mourning clothes and weeping bitterly because of the decree of destruction against the Jews. Meanwhile, Queen Esther was inside the palace, protected but isolated from the harsh reality of her people. In the midst of this separation, Hathach, a servant of the king assigned to Esther, becomes the vital link. He goes out from the comfort of the palace to the square to find out what was troubling Mordecai, becoming the messenger who would set in motion the salvation of an entire nation. Just like Hathach, we also have a crucial role in God’s plan today.
- There is a square full of pain We live in a world that resembles the square where Mordecai was. There are people around us who are suffering, going through mourning, facing decrees of destruction in their families, marriages, or finances. Often, this pain is public and evident, but they need someone to approach them.
- We enjoy the grace of the palace As believers, we have been brought into the King’s house. We enjoy His grace, His protection, His provision, and His promises. However, we were not saved simply to lock ourselves in the palace and enjoy its comforts while the world perishes outside. Our salvation has a greater purpose.
- A willingness to go out is required Hathach had to leave the safety and comfort of the palace to go to the square. To make a difference in the lives of others, we must be willing to cross our own borders of comfort. True ministry happens when we step out of our routines and approach people in their place of need.
- We must be the connecting bridge God calls us to be intermediaries of hope. Our job is to bring the message of the pain from the square into the presence of the King in prayer, and to bring the hope and resources of the King to the people in the square. Just like Hathach, our actions of compassion and our message can be the beginning of a great restoration for someone else.
We cannot be indifferent to the crises that surround us. God has strategically positioned us in this time and place to be carriers of His salvation. Let us not underestimate the power of being a faithful messenger; a simple conversation, a compassionate approach, or a prayer can unleash divine purpose and bring freedom to those who are captive.
So Hathach went out to Mordecai in the square in front of the palace gate. Esther 4:6 NLT
Think About It:
- Who is the “Mordecai” in your surroundings that is currently going through a time of affliction and needs to be heard?
- In what ways have you become comfortable with the blessings of the “palace,” forgetting those who suffer outside?
- Take a moment today to reach out to someone you know is in difficulty and offer them a word of hope.