Esther: Courage, Faith, and the Power of Purpose
Charlene H.
I help businesses achieve systemic change and equity with strategic, faith-based solutions that lead to real, lasting results. Join me on the journey!
Welcome back, dear readers! As we continue our exploration of the intersection of DEI and faith, we're about to uncover the timeless scriptural wisdom that fuels our unwavering commitment to justice and equity. So, let's dive right in!
When we left off, we had encountered Moses, whose trust in God's guidance, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, exemplifies how faith can fuel remarkable leadership. Now we will explore another example of leadership and purpose.
Meet Esther, a young Jewish woman who had risen to the position of queen in Persia. In her new role, she found herself in a unique position to influence the fate of her people. Esther's story, recorded in the Book of Esther in the Bible, holds profound lessons that resonate with our pursuit of justice and equity "for such a time as this."
Esther's Unwavering Courage (Esther 4:16)
Esther's journey is an epic tale of courage. Faced with a perilous situation, she risked her life by approaching King Xerxes uninvited, an act that was punishable by death. Her fearless resolve echoes the call to courage found in the Bible. In Joshua 1:9, we're reminded, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
In our pursuit of justice and equity, we encounter challenges that may seem insurmountable. But like Esther, we're called to stand with unwavering courage, knowing that our faith can move mountains.
Esther's Fervent Prayer (Esther 4:15-16)
When faced with a daunting task, Esther turned to prayer. She sought the support of her fellow Jews, urging them to fast and pray for three days. Her actions reflect the importance of seeking divine guidance and wisdom. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
In our journey toward justice and equity, prayer and seeking divine guidance become vital tools. They provide us with clarity and strength, helping us navigate complex issues with grace.
Esther's Advocacy for the Marginalized (Esther 8:5)
Esther's intervention on behalf of her people not only saved lives but also highlighted the significance of advocating for the marginalized. In our quest for justice and equity, we're called to defend the oppressed and speak up for those whose voices may not be heard. Psalm 82:3-4 underscores this duty: "Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked."
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Esther's story reminds us that we, too, can be champions of justice, echoing the Bible's call to protect the vulnerable.
Esther's Divine Purpose (Esther 4:14)
Perhaps the most resonant verse in Esther's narrative is when Mordecai tells her, "And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14). Esther's life had led her to a moment where her purpose became unmistakable—to save her people.
In our pursuit of justice and equity, we often wonder about our purpose and role. Just like Esther, we may find that our unique positions and experiences have prepared us "for such a time as this." The Bible reminds us in Ephesians 2:10, "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
So, as we immerse ourselves in the remarkable story of Esther, let's draw inspiration from her courage, prayerful resolve, advocacy for the marginalized, and recognition of divine purpose. Much like Esther, we find ourselves in a pivotal moment, called to stand for justice and equity "for such a time as this."
Author:
Charlene Holmes, MPS - Chief Equity Officer & Founder, Imana Borena, Inc.
Imana Borena, Inc is a Christian-based, dynamic, and forward-thinking innovation incubator for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) best practices. Guided by our mission to infuse Christian principles of equity and righteousness into the landscape of DEI and anti-racism, we are fully trained in anti-racist principles and equipped to deliver impactful training and facilitation services. Our extensive knowledge base, rooted in DEI initiatives, empowers us to drive positive change within organizations by creating transformative environments and fostering tangible outcomes. Through our comprehensive training, strategy development, and policy analysis, we support organizations in their journey towards driving positive change, all while upholding our Christian values and commitment to anti-racism.
Ways to get involved:
Let's identify who Esther's & her people's adversary was. It was Haman the Agagite--the enemy of diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI). He loathed anyone who stood for DEI so he cowardly built gallows at night to hang any and all DEI proponents. Haman was an enemy of progress but Mordecai stood resolutely & refused to bow down to his woke nonsense. Esthers of our day must also exhibit decisive courage to oppose modern Haman in our midst. There are many who, when they are suddenly raised from obscurity to prominence, become proud. To be an Esther, we must stand though the heavens fall, saying, "If I perish, I perish." Remember, Haman was high in authority in Medo-Persia and those in opposition to DEI are also high in authority. We cannot utter the words "If I perish, I perish" presumptuously unless we are prayerful individuals who understand that moral courage stem from a life ordered by principle, courage, integrity and, sound upbringing. Could it be that not having legal grounds to bring against advocates of DEI, some will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack? Haman used the king's seal to pass an unlawful law. I am confident that He who stood with Esther and Mordecai will stand with and vindicate His people.