"I Almost Got Caught Up" Esther 4:13-17

The Power of Remembering Your Roots

In our journey through life, it's easy to get caught up in our successes and forget where we came from. As we climb the ladder of achievement, we may find ourselves disconnected from the very people and experiences that shaped us. But what if our current position is not just about personal gain, but a divine appointment to make a difference?

The story of Esther serves as a powerful reminder of this truth. Here was a young Jewish woman who found herself in the palace, chosen as queen of Persia. It would have been easy for her to bask in her newfound status and forget about her people. But when faced with a plot to annihilate the Jews, Esther was confronted with a choice: remain silent and potentially save herself, or speak up and risk everything for her people.

Her uncle Mordecai's words ring true for many of us today: "Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:13-14)

This pivotal moment in Esther's life challenges us to consider our own positions of influence. Have we become so comfortable in our success that we've forgotten the struggles of those around us? Do we use our status as a shield from the realities faced by our communities?

It's a sobering thought that our achievements don't make us immune to the challenges faced by our people. As Mordecai reminded Esther, her position in the palace wouldn't protect her if harm came to the Jews. Similarly, our titles, education, or financial status don't exempt us from the systemic issues affecting our communities.

The danger lies in getting "caught up" – allowing our success to separate us from our roots. We may find ourselves looking down on the very experiences that shaped us, forgetting the times when we too had to make do with less, when our resources were limited, and our options few.

But what if we viewed our current status not as a personal achievement, but as a providential placement? What if, like Esther, we recognized that we are where we are "for such a time as this"? This perspective shift can transform how we view our responsibilities and opportunities.

Esther's response to Mordecai's challenge is instructive. She didn't immediately rush to action. Instead, she called for a fast – a time of spiritual preparation and seeking God's guidance. This reminds us that when faced with daunting tasks, our first response should be to turn to God for wisdom and strength.

When Esther finally approached the king, she did so with purpose and preparation. She adorned herself in her royal robes, understanding the gravity of the moment. This teaches us that when we step into our purpose, we should do so with excellence and intentionality.

The result? Esther found favor with the king, and her bold action set in motion events that would save her people. Her faith led to favor, and her courage changed the course of history.

This story challenges us to consider: How are we using our positions of influence? Are we leveraging our success for the benefit of others, or have we become disconnected from the struggles around us?

It's worth noting that our success is often built on the sacrifices and struggles of those who came before us. We stand on the shoulders of generations who fought, cried, and persevered so that we could have the opportunities we enjoy today. Recognizing this should instill in us a sense of responsibility to pay it forward.

Moreover, our current achievements are not the pinnacle. There will always be those who come after us, ready to take things further. Our role is to be a bridge, opening doors and creating opportunities for others just as others did for us.

The call, then, is to stay connected to our roots even as we grow. It's about remembering where we came from and using our current position to make a difference. This might mean mentoring others, advocating for change in our spheres of influence, or using our resources to support causes that matter.

It's also about maintaining humility. Success can breed arrogance if we're not careful. We might start to think we've "arrived" and forget that our position is a gift and a responsibility. The antidote to this is gratitude – recognizing that our achievements are not solely our own doing but the result of God's grace and the support of others.

In practical terms, this might mean:

Staying connected to our communities, even if we've "moved up" in the world.

Using our voice to speak up for those who can't speak for themselves.

Leveraging our networks and resources to create opportunities for others.

Remembering and honoring those who helped us along the way.

Maintaining a posture of humility and gratitude.

As we reflect on Esther's story and our own journeys, let's ask ourselves: Are we getting caught up in our own success, or are we using our position for a greater purpose? Are we disconnected from the struggles of our people, or are we actively working to make a difference?

The challenge is clear: Don't get so caught up in your own success that you forget your roots and the people who need you. Your placement is providential, providing you with the opportunity to be a positive force in the world.

Like Esther, may we have the courage to step into our purpose, the wisdom to seek God's guidance, and the heart to use our influence for the good of others. For who knows? Perhaps we have come to our positions for such a time as this.