Third Monday of Advent

"Even if you now remain silent, relief and deliverance will come to the Jews from another source; but you and your father’s house will perish. Who knows—perhaps it was for a time like this that you became queen?" Esther 4:14

Reflection: Like Ruth centuries before, Esther the Queen of Persia cannot perceive the magnitude of her decision. Humble and deeply in love with the Lord, how could she imagine that it is indeed her, a simple Jewish girl in Susa, that God in His Providence has appointed to save her people from yet another grave threat? God works through mystery. Would that we trust Him at His Word. Prayer: God our Father, how quick we are to tell You that You must be mistaken about us. Like so many of our ancestors do we doubt Your ability to make us exactly who You intend us to be. Help us to see ourselves as You see us and to believe. Amen.