This chapter introduces Haman, a man promoted to be the King’s second in command. Haman is furious when Mordecai refuses to bow to him, so he gets the king to issue an edict to kill all of the Jews.
“Then the king’s scribes were summoned on the thirteenth day of the first month, and an edict, according to all that Haman commanded, was written… in the name of King Ahasuerus and sealed with the king’s signet ring. Letters were sent by couriers to all the king’s provinces with instruction to destroy, to kill, and to annihilate all Jews, young and old, women and children, in one day, the thirteenth day of the twelfth month… and to plunder their goods.” (v12-13 abr)
Haman hated the Jews so much that he used his power and influence to sign their death sentence. In one fell swoop, on a single day, all Jews throughout Persia were to be killed. I’m guessing it would take eleven months to coordinate the effort via pony express (Persia was quite big). Regardless of the time frame, it’s still genocide.
Unfortunately, history repeats itself (rather, people repeat past sins) and more than once, people have tried to wipe out God’s people (not only those of Jewish decent, but also all Christ followers). This persecution is still happening today.
Satan is a brutal and ruthless enemy, a prowling lion, seeking to destroy God’s / Jesus’ followers. He will stop at nothing to destroy anyone who calls God sovereign. He will lie and manipulate, warp truths, and coerce anyone he can to do his evil bidding.
Christ followers need not worry however – assuming we are strong in our relationship with God, Satan can only destroy our physical bodies. No matter what he throws at us, the suffering will only last in this physical lifetime, a mere moment in the perspective of eternity. He cannot harm our eternal souls because they belong to God, our shield and protector – the roaring lion has no teeth, no power over that which God protects.
I strongly encourage us to endure any trials (with God’s help), and pray for the salvation of everyone around us, including those who have fallen prey to Satan’s lies. We know it’s God’s desire that none should perish without knowing Him as their savior, so we can pray toward that same goal. It’s important we love all of our neighbors as Jesus would, which helps spread His love and build the Kingdom of God here on earth.
Father God, our Glorious and Sovereign Lord, You are mighty above all others. No matter how hard our enemy tries, he has already lost the war. Jesus has defeated him, and we are free from his tyranny. Father please protect those who have fallen prey to his lies. Please open their hearts and minds to Your love and salvation, saving their souls for all of eternity. Please help us, Your devoted followers, to remain strong in relationship with You, and minister to those who are lost. May we all work toward Your eternal Kingdom, and Your glory, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training