An Unexpected Word from God

Feb 13, 2025 | by Dr. Darren M. McClellan

When they told Mordecai what Esther had said, Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, “Do not think that in the king’s palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews. For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this. (Esther 4:12-14). 

As we continue our journey in worship through the book of Esther, I am very excited to welcome our guest preacher for this Sunday, the Rev. Dr. Amy Steele. In the early stages of our worship planning, Rev. Kristen and I recognized our desire to hear a Word from God that was likely unexpected or even surprising. In the spirit of the text, we wondered, who are the alternative voices that deserve to be heard?   

Ultimately, Esther is a story about freedom and liberation. She is an outsider turned insider for reasons that only God knows why. Nevertheless, this story is not all about her. In Scripture, it is God who takes action to deliver those who are suffering and/or experiencing persecution. When people are subjected to these conditions, God intervenes on their behalf to bring about wholeness, justice, and full participation in the affairs of their respective communities. 

Last week, we heard of Haman’s intention to eliminate the Jews from his territory. How can anyone let this happen?   

 In celebration of Esther’s courage, I can think of no better voice to help us understand what it means to stand in faith for the sake of others than my friend, Amy. Over our time together in the Academy of Spiritual Formation, I have come to know her as a gifted scholar, writer, educator, advocate, and preacher. She has a way of ‘showing up’ when it matters most, strengthened through prayer and with great perseverance. Whenever Amy speaks, I want to listen. I trust that you will want to do the same. I appreciate her bringing the message in both of our worship services “for such a time as this.” 

This Sunday, our children’s choirs will be singing in both services. You won’t want to miss that! Also remember that our children will be assisting Lamey’s Leadership Project in the collection of monies for snacks and hygiene kits for the children at Dumas Wesley Community Center. Come prepared to model the power of generosity (with loose coins/cash).

This Sunday, we will also be welcoming guests from the Home of Grace for Women in Mobile at our 9:00 Ascension Service. We are eager to extend our hospitality and learn from their journey as well.  

It is going to be a great day of worship! I hope to see you there.

Grace to You, 

Darren