Palm Sunday seems like the perfect time to reflect on the meaning of “for such a time as this.” After all, Jesus, son of God (John 10:36), was facing the ultimate “for such a time as this.” And in the coming days we as Christians will celebrate the miracle of Jesus’s obedience and sacrifice in his death and resurrection. In short, Jesus saved us, and Esther saved her people.
Wow, those are pretty big shoes to fill. But here is the good news: Jesus has already died for each of us. Jesus is the savior, which means we don’t have to be. Instead, we are called to accept Jesus as our personal savior and to “[d]o nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above [ourselves], not looking to [our] own interests but each of [us] to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4.
Coincidently or (perhaps providentially), my pastor preached this morning about recognizing a time to stop praying and start acting. He believes that making an impact for the Kingdom requires: your God-given ability, Christ-like attitude (Philippians 2:5), and an anointing from Christ (1John 2:27). I don’t know about you, but this sounds a lot like “for such a time as this” to me.
During the podcast we said that “for such a time as this” is the intersection of God’s prompting, opportunity, prayer, and faith. Personally, the faith part is the hardest for me. Sometimes, I am so worried about failing that I do nothing at all. Maybe you have felt that way too. Or maybe you struggle to hear that still small voice or to discern the Lord’s will in your life. Perhaps, you haven’t recognized the opportunity God has placed in your life to act for his Kingdom. Or could it be that you just need to pray to see and seize those opportunities? Regardless of where we may stumble, the Bible assures that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28.
Maybe we should worry less, and step out in faith more. I am confident that when we are obedient and place our faith in Christ, we will all have Esther moments. Maybe, it is serving a coworker selflessly in your workplace. Maybe, it’s taking a leap of faith by going back to school or changing jobs. Maybe, it’s starting a podcast or going on a mission trip. Maybe, it is showing the love of Christ to someone God has placed on your heart. Maybe, it is as simple as representing the light of Christ in a dark workplace or situation.
As we go forward this week and celebrate our Messiah, I challenge us all to be ready to seize on the opportunities that God places in our lives. We can be assured that the Lord has plans to prosper us and not to harm us, to give us hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11. Like it says in Luke 16:10 if you are obedient in the small things, He will entrust you with the big things. The next time you feel that prompting from the Lord to act, no matter how small it may feel, pray first, and then ask yourself the question, “And who knows but that you [insert your name] have come to your royal position for such a time as this.” Esther 4:14