I am using the daily Bible reading schedule from “The Bible.net” for my daily Bible reading.

Today, I am reading and commenting on Esther 8-10.

In a way, the Book of Esther is about the contrast between two men who rose to great power, Haman and Mordecai.  Haman spent his entire life seeking power in anyway that he could find it.  Mordecai, on the other hand, spent his life doing what he believed was right.  Haman sought continuously to expand his power.  When he discovered that Mordecai did not live in fear of him, Haman sought to destroy not just Mordecai, but all of his people.  In contrast, when Mordecai discovered a plot against the king, he reported it, and then returned to his regular duties without seeking reward or honor.  Even before that, he never made any effort to capitalize on his cousin and adopted daughter becoming Queen.  Both men rose to the highest rank short of becoming king.  Haman had sought that power for his own benefit.  Mordecai sought that power for the benefit of his people.