The one thing we have seen since lockdown is how some people have risen to highlight certain needs in our community.
Marcus Rashford is one of these. His cause for food and milk to be available has caught the attention of our nation. Sure he is rich, but what is that in the context of what he is doing. I am appalled, although not surprised, at certain media who instead of focusing on the positive of Marcus Rashford have indeed done the opposite such is the behaviour of some people.
There is a story in the Bible of a young orphan who knew all about the race discrimination who stood out for justice risking her life to fight her cause. The odds were certainly stacked against her.
To approach the king without being called could mean death unless the king chose to extend mercy. His track record in this area was not great, just ask the last queen.
Esther knew that but she also knew desperate times call on desperate measures.
The reason is a wicked man, who took the huff at one person, decided to destroy a whole nation. His name was Haman and his genocide had begun to be put in place.
This young girl called Esther was a Jew who would be in that genocide once it was implemented so her uncle asked Esther to lay her life on the line to save a nation.
Esther was willing to give up her life for the sake of her people.
Jesus did the same for us so he has the right to ask of us the same..
If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
Paul in Acts 20:24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
Jeff Lucas says “If I’m honest, I find myself intimidated rather than inspired by these words” Think of the Persecuted Church’ suffering for the gospel around the World. Esther could have been tempted ‘to rely on her relationship with the king to’ keep her safe, but she knew she had to put the people before her self interest.
What matters, surely, is that whatever your circumstances are right now I pray you may face them with courage.
Remember Jesus has overcome
Warning how do you deal with your prejudice?
How do you react when people are highlighted for doing good?
How do we solve issues in our lives? Are you someone who naturally dashes around when there is conflict, perhaps creating the possibility of more?
Sometimes it’s better to wait if only to calm down.
Finally, Esther spoke out and saved a nation. Marcus Rashford has spoken out and been successful in part for his cause.
Black lives matter is being spoken out more than ever, yet a man had to die for this issue to be once again highlighted.
There was a dark day when Jesus went to the cross and was subjected to one of the most excruciating deaths possible. He turned that day into life for us.
Remember, as we have said, Jesus had to die too to ensure our sin was dealt with. Today you can know the saving grace of Jesus for your self as Jesus truly stands out. He came to put an end to all discriminations and injustices.
Thought
He may require us to take the same steps as Esther did before Jesus acts. If that is the case let us pray if that time comes we too can be an Esther.
Stay Safe Blessed.