“Then Harbona, one of the eunuchs attending the king, said, “A pole reaching to a height of fifty cubits stands by Haman’s house. He had it set up for Mordecai, who spoke up to help the king.” The king said, “Impale him on it!” So they impaled Haman on the pole he had set up for Mordecai. Then the king’s fury subsided.” Esther 7:9-10
I’ve been finishing up a Bible Study of the book of Esther by Chuck Swindoll and it got dicey in Chapter 7. Queen Esther had invited both Haman and Mordecai to a banquet; and they weren’t close buds. Haman was thrilled at the notion of him being honored with a feast in the presence of King Ahasuerus. Then while going back home, Haman saw Mordecai and he was not a happy camper. As we read in the above verses, his end was near. This is a reminder during this season of Advent, that when God calls the shots, nobody can stop His plans. Haman, the most powerful man in the land next to the king gets his hands tied and his mouth silenced by the pole.
After going through this book, I realized that it never mentions God, but He’s always there. Does that sound familiar? Pastor Swindoll suggested His presence was written in invisible ink; just like in our lives at times. Have you ever been driving down the road and look up at the clouds and see them arrange themselves to read “Here I AM”. By faith, you, these Haitian kids and me see Him, and inaudibly while reading His Word, we hear Him on a regular basis throughout the events and challenges of our lives; whether it be the crushing blows from inflation, or terror from evil gangs or those victories that seem to come out from nowhere.
This year, look more closely around you; who’s calling the shots. Who is in control? God is at work throughout your journey. Are you letting God call the shots in your life or still going it alone?
Heavenly Father, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, 8not knowing where we go but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.
May God be with you,
Jay