50 likes | 140 Vues
Continuing Catholic Education. 2011-2012 March 25 2012. Esther - Overview. Background – Exile to Post-Exile Timing – Same time as Ezra and Nehemiah Context – A Queen becoming an Instrument of God Main Themes God’s Providence God’s Time - Kairos Everyone has a role in God’s plan.
E N D
Continuing Catholic Education 2011-2012 March 25 2012
Esther - Overview • Background – Exile to Post-Exile • Timing – Same time as Ezra and Nehemiah • Context – A Queen becoming an Instrument of God • Main Themes • God’s Providence • God’s Time - Kairos • Everyone has a role in God’s plan
Story of Esther • King Xerxes celebrates his wealth with • He asks Queen Vashti to celebrate with him on the 7th day of feast; she refuses and get banished • Esther, an orphan Jew is chosen to be Queen • Esther’s preparation for 12 months before meeting King • Esther’s cousin Mordecai saves King from a plot • His name is written in the royal record • Hamaan is annoyed at Mordecai since he refused to kneel before him • Hamaan orders execution of all Jews
Story of Esther • Mordecai asks Esther for help • Esther was reluctant at first (4:14) • Esther prepares a banquet for King and Haaman • Record books are read to King • Esther reveals King that she is a Jew • King orders Haaman to be hung
Esther and Me • God’s Providence in mysterious ways • Preparation time- KAIROS • Submit to God’s time • Esther found favor before God through obedience • Esther was an orphan, she ended up in Palace • Esther became an instrument in God’s Salvation Plan • Each of us have a specific role in God’s plan • Even though God’s name is not mentioned in this Book, he is always there acting through Mordecai, Esther etc.