And every day Mordecai walked in front of the court of the harem to learn how Esther was and what was happening to her. Esther 2:11
The story of Esther is the story of God’s amazing providence. Working behind the scenes, God brings the beautiful Esther to the royal position of Queen at exactly the right time so that she might intercede for her people.
But beneath this wonderful story is heartache. The Babylonians had ransacked Jerusalem and taken away Esther’s relatives. Now living as exiles, Esther is an orphan. Her mother and father had died. Mordecai, her older cousin, is bringing her up.
But the heartache doesn’t end there. Esther is chosen for a beauty competition to replace the disrespectful Queen Vashti. If she wins, she will be married to an egotistical, unstable tyrant. If she loses, it will be because he has used her and found her unacceptable. She will spend the rest of her life in his harem only able to await his lustful call. Any plans of a “normal” life have been turned upside down.
Into this situation, the spotlight shines on Mordecai. First, he had dutifully taken up the cause of the orphan and widow by caring for one close to him. But more than just physically caring for her, he also is concerned about her well-being. She is a young girl in a dangerous place.
With that knowledge of the danger, God’s Word records his constant concern. Like a sentry keeping watch, the powerless Mordecai paces in from of the court to hear the latest news of Esther. Though not explicitly stated, I am sure he walks those steps consumed in prayer.
Here for us is a beautiful picture of an interceding parent. We know better than our child the dangers that surround them. But what are we to do? Rush in and rescue them? Like Mordecai, in many cases we can’t. But we can stay in contact with them, interceding every day.
As we do this, we will be imitating our Savior who prayed for us, “I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one” (John 17:15).
No doubt, Mordecai’s care and concern strengthened Esther’s heart. She was alone but not alone. She was not forgotten. Ultimately, Mordecai’s prayers are answered. His diligence in watching over Esther helps him thwart a coup and results in his honor. More importantly, he is in the position to save his people.
What dangers are your children facing? Are you praying that your child will be kept from the evil one? Are you pacing the sidewalk in prayer? You can actively pray, trusting in the Sovereign One.
