March 13

Introduction

Esther 6:14—7:10: Esther invites the king and Haman to a second banquet and tells the king about the plot to destroy her people. When she reveals that Haman instigated this plot, the king orders that Haman be executed on the very gallows Haman had built for Mordecai.

Today’s Key Verse: Esther 7:3

Queen Esther answered, “If it please Your Majesty to grant my humble request, my wish is that I may live and that my people may live.”

Reflect

What did Haman do when he realized that he was about to be punished? What did the king surmise? In today’s reading, Esther has now revealed her identity when referring to the Jews as her people (verses 3 and 4). Was this still a risky thing for her to do? Why or why not?

Pray

Sovereign God, you are a God of justice and mercy. Look upon all who live under the threat of oppressive regimes and safeguard those who seek just resolutions to conflicts in our world today. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Esther 8:1–17: Mordecai issues letters in the king’s name so that the Jews may defend themselves.