Unexpected Favor

Preferential treatment can sometimes be earned by diligent work or financial “contributions.” However, it is often just a kind gesture or a thoughtful word that makes the most favorable impression and builds a warm and trusting relationship. Esther didn’t ask for any special favors from the royal household; she just won her way into people’s hearts. This consistent favor towards her is “a clue to God’s presence in the story” (David G. Firth: see also Neh. 1:11; Luke 2:52) and a tool she learned to use wisely. The king quickly chose her over her rivals; the phrase used suggests he was deeply impressed by her. His successful quest and Esther’s new status were celebrated by yet another of his lavish banquets, along with a public holiday and generous gift giving. 

While Esther’s ongoing relationship with Mordecai and her people needed to remain surreptitious, Mordecai seemed to have held some kind of public position. His “sitting at the king’s gate” (19)–probably the massive gatehouse built by Darius, with huge towers and pillars–gave him ample opportunity to keep an eye on the palace comings and goings, and an ear out for conversations. Because Mordecai was so strategically located, he was able to find out about a plot to assassinate the king. Because of his relationship with Queen Esther he was able to report it. Because of her favor with the king, she was able not only to advise him of the threat against his life but also to gain Mordecai the credit for the intelligence gathering. The outcomes–safety for the king and punishment for the plotters–were all due to the fact that the young orphan from a vulnerable community was now unexpectedly the highly favored Queen of Persia! Reward for her mentor Mordecai would come much later.

What were the qualities that drew Hegai, Xerxes and others to Esther? Consider 1 Peter 3:3 and 4. Reflect on the important role of parent-figures in nurturing personal attributes.