March 8

Introduction

Esther 2:1–23: The events in the book of Esther take place among the Jewish diaspora community in the Persian empire during the reign of Xerxes (486–465 B.C.). The story centers around a Jewish woman who becomes queen of Persia and who rescues her people from genocide. The opening chapter describes a banquet hosted by King Xerxes. When Queen Vashti refuses to obey the king and appear before his guests, the king becomes furious and issues a proclamation stating that Vashti may never again appear before him. Today’s reading begins with the king searching his kingdom for a new queen. Mordecai, a Jew, has a beautiful younger cousin, Esther, whom he has raised as his daughter. The king falls in love with Esther and makes her queen, but does not know that she is a Jew. Mordecai becomes a palace official who overhears a plot to kill the king.

Today’s Key Verse: Esther 2:16b

Esther was brought to King Xerxes in the royal palace.

Reflect

How was Esther treated when she was brought to the palace? What are your thoughts about Esther’s need to keep her identity a secret? How did the king honor Esther after she was crowned as queen?

Pray

Lord God, I place my trust in you, knowing that you guide me day by day. I thank and praise you for your steadfast love and care. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Esther 3:1–15: Haman becomes prime minister and plots to kill all the Jews in the empire.