February 1, 2010

Changing Destiny

Destiny is an important thing. It speaks of the future. It is where weend up in life in terms of our character and contribution. Our choices determine our destiny. Where we end up in life is simply aresult of the roads we take. The pathways we take not only determine our destiny, they also impact the destiny of others also. In the Old Testament book of Esther we find the story of a man who made wise choices - choices that not only led him to a great destiny, but positively affected the destiny of many others, in fact, of a wholenation. The man's name is Mordecai. We could talk about several key decisionsthis man made, but let's focus on one. At some point in Mordecai's life his extended family faced a crisis. Anuncle and aunt died leaving behind a young girl named Hadassah. We knowher as Esther. This young lady was left an orphan, with no one to carefor her. Mordecai made a decision. He chose to take the responsibilityfor raising his cousin, Esther. He became a father to her. He invested in her life, providing for her needs and giving her the spiritualcovering she desperately needed. When he made this decision Mordecai could not have imagined how significant it was. Under Mordecai's tutelage and care, Esther grew up and ultimately became the Queen of Persia. Through her divineplacement, she helped save the Jewish people from horrible pain and destruction. Mordecai's decision to care for Esther changed her destiny, Mordecai's destiny and the destiny of God's people. His one wise and compassionate choice led to events that are still being celebrated today! Remember, our destiny and the destiny of others around us are being fashioned one decision at a time. Let's ask God to help us continually make good, wise and compassionate choices.

Pastor Dale