Esther 10:3 For Mordecai the Jew was next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.

Est 10:3  For Mordecai the Jew was next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.

The book of Esther closes with the greatness of Mordecai. Mordecai became the second most powerful man in the kingdom. The king thought he was great and promoted him. He was also great with the Jews: His own people loved him and considered him great among them.

How did Mordecai achieve this greatness?

1. THROUGH LOYALTY AND INTEGRITY. He started out as an officer at the king’s gate (Est 2:21). It was a lowly position. Nevertheless, he did it well with humility and honesty. Even while serving under a foreign king, he was loyal. When he learned of an assassination attempt on the king’s life, he did not sit down and do nothing but reported the matter to the queen who told it to the king. The king’s life was saved as a result (Est 2:21-23).

When he was not rewarded for his effort in saving the king, he did not resign from his job or became angry with the king. But he continued doing what he was supposed to do. He was one good employee who served with distinction in loyalty and integrity. His loyalty was soon noticed by the king who promoted him (Est 10:3).

Most would want immediate recognition and reward when they think they have done a good job. And if they don’t get it, they quit or change their working attitude. They have forgotten they are employees and bringing in sales and profits are expected of them and they are paid a salary to do it: “So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do” (Luke 17:10).

In like manner, let us continue to serve the Lord with faith, loyalty and integrity. He will remember our works and reward us (Heb 6:10; Rev 2:10).

2. THROUGH LOVE AND AFFECTION. Though great in the kingdom, he did not become puff up. But he remembered his people and was concerned about their welfare (Est 10:3). This goodness made him great.

Today’s political leaders are not like kings in the past that sat on their thrones and gave commands and demanded obedience. This country is blessed to have a very friendly prime minister. He has a Facebook which he wrote just like anyone. He recognises when someone has done a good job and praises him in his FaceBook. He takes “selfies” with the people and mingles with them. He has made himself dear to the people by his love and affection.

True greatness is not found in titles and positions but is won through much service of love and affection. Christ says: “Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister” (Matt 20:26).

3. EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION. The record says he was “seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.” (Est 10:3). The ESV translates as “he sought the welfare of his people and spoke peace to all his people.”

Every man knows how to talk but only few know how to communicate well. It is the reason why many need to attend classes to learn the art of communication. Mordecai’s words were peaceable in that it was not hurtful. He was not one who would criticise and condemn another person with his words.

God wants us to speak goodly words. “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver” (Pro 25:11). He wants us to season our words so that like food, it is more “palatable” to the ears. “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Col 4:6).

Greatness is not found in position but in what we do. Mordecai was loyal to his master. When the king advanced him, he did not disown his people the Jews, nor was he ashamed of his relation to them, but he took special care for them. He did not seek his own wealth, or was concerned only for the benefits of his own family but he took care of their wealth and spoke peaceable with them.  

When you are at the top, remember Mordecai and follow his example. 

Jimmy Lau

Psa 119:97  Oh how love I thy law! It is my meditation all the day.

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