Quick Summary:

We could all share examples of being on the short end of the power stick in one struggle or another. And perhaps the reverse is also true: we’ve used our position to advocate or protect or benefit someone else. Both the story of Esther and the episode from Mark speak about what advocacy and protection can look like, and Esther in particular highlights the risks involved. On a day when we lift up letter writing to Congress as an exercise in advocacy, these texts are worth paying attention to. For we, as people of faith, have not only the right as citizens of this democracy but also the obligation as citizens of God’s kingdom to lift our voices to people in power for the sake of those whose voices would otherwise be stifled, stigmatized, or ignored.

Mordecai reminded Esther that she could not remain neutral, that her action was needed, and that she could use her position of influence to change the fate of her people. Today we are being called to awaken to our responsibility “for such a time as this.” To join our voices with other people of faith and conviction across the country to support budget priorities that serve the common good of all people—especially those struggling to put food on their tables.