From the Castle to the Classroom (Lessons from Esther)

I just finished studying Esther.  We also just returned from our family vacation from Banff, Alberta, Canada.  We stayed in the beautiful Fairmont at Banff Springs... what is described as the Castle of the Rockies. 

I found it interesting studying the queen while staying in such a castle.  When I saw the beautiful staircases... I imagined the thoughts of Esther as she contemplated entering into the King's presence not knowing if she'd be accepted or not.... and those thoughts weighing as heavy as life and death.  

I imagined what it would be like for this castle to be my home... the wonderfulness and the weight that that would all hold.  Oh how it enriched my study on this amazing woman of God.

Her words and actions, drenched with prayer and wisdom, changed the course of history... for her and her people.  And all of this done without even a mention of God.  

Oh, He was in the story.  In fact, He wrote the story.  He not only wrote the happenings of the story, He orchestrated the events from beginning to end.  He used the good and the bad... from the chaos that Haman was causing to the calmness that Esther was displaying to show His power and might over unfortunate circumstances and evil attempts of the enemy.  

Esther's great bravery boosted her people to victory.  If Esther hadn't, I know God would've found another way but because she did... her people were saved through her and we are given such a beautiful example of how our actions, filled with His wisdom can change the course of history! 

Now, to the classroom (or it could be your specific place of work and those you influence)...

This morning I read an incredible writing a friend of mine had shared "When God is in the Classroom found at mrsackley.wordpress.com.... 

Here's a little excerpt... "Don't think of your inability to freely talk about Jesus as a hindrance; rather think of it as an opportunity to let every action be seasoned with the love and service of Christ."

Thinking of Esther, God reminded me of my years teaching in public school... where I couldn't openly talk about God... but how His love flowed and His work was done.  Just like how God's name is never mentioned throughout the book of Esther but He orchestrated every event and His love, power, strength and protection is evident throughout the entire story.

Teachers, the love you show your students... through your love, your patience, your joy, your kindness, your discipline (yes, that, too), your high expectations and your belief that they can attain them... can all point to His love, His patience, His joy, His kindness, His discipline, His expectations and His belief in them.  Don't ever underestimate the influence you have!  

God can use you like He used Esther... possibly never even needing to you to utter His name to others. You are the queen of your classroom!  Let me encourage you to know your King, listen to Him and let Him lead you and your kids to the Castle!