Today you should read: Esther 3:1-15
It’s amazing how one man’s righteous convictions can produce such consequences as the potential genocide of an entire people group. That’s what Mordecai learned in chapter 3 of Esther. Because Mordecai obeyed the 1st Commandment and didn’t do what is the underfoot of most besetting sins, he upset Haman so much for not bowing down to him that he started planning out the mass killing of God’s people. Of course, as we continue to read Esther, in God’s sovereignty, this is what God uses for Esther to take such a stand to help save God’s people and point to Jesus as our Redeemer and Savior. But before getting there, it’d be good for us to read today’s Scripture and really reflect on the importance of doing what’s right in God’s eyes, even if we’re scared of the potential consequences it can bring. I know Mordecai probably didn’t know his refusal of idolatry would potentially wipe out his entire people. But he certainly knew it would put his own life and family in danger. However, he didn’t buckle to the power and temptation of safety and position. He kept his witness and didn’t turn a blind eye to the evil of idolatry or coming up with some lie later pretending like he thought it was God he was bowing down to.
The book and movie Silence reflects on similar themes and situations dealing with convictions and what may seem like picking between the lesser of two evils. Sometimes we feel like we’re in similar situations with decisions at work or school, in church or with politics. What’s right in God’s eyes may not seem the most logical of choices according to the world but we don’t live by the world’s standards or view of success. We’re each accountable to the Lord and the Lord alone. Sadly, this is why many churches have covered up abuse because they thought that the suffering of a few victims was better than the suffering of an entire church with the PR scandal it produces. But is that right in God’s eyes? Absolutely not! Like Mordecai stood before the Lord in judgment for how he handled the temptation to bow and worship Haman to the risk of other’s lives, he had to answer for such tough decisions. Sometimes these situations are more gray than my above example. But let today’s Scripture serve as a reminder that we will face such decisions and will need to live with all consequences.
By: Erik Koliser — West Campus Pastor
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