ESTHER 2:21-23
In those days; while Mordecaisat within the king’s gate, two of the king’s eunuchs, Bigthan
and Teresn, doorkeepers, became furious and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus. So the
matter became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in
Mordecai’s name. And when an inquiry was made into the matter, it was confirmed, and both
were hanged on a gallows; and it was written in the book of the chroniclesin the presence of
the king.
John Stuart Mill (1806-1873) created a code of morality based on self-interest. He believed
that only individuals and their particular interests were important, and those interests could
be determined by whatever maximized their pleasure and minimized their pain.
Thisstands in stark contrast to the philosophy by which Mordecai lived. When Mordecai
learned that a plot against the king’s life was being planned, he immediately informed the
king through Queen Esther.
He risked everything, including the retaliation of the conspirator’s families after the men
were executed. And for what? His name was written in a book. No reward, no thanks.
Although God eventually brought Mordacai valor to the king’s attention, for the moment
the loyalJew’s only satisfaction was knowing he did what was right. But for Mordecai,
knowing he had done the right thing was sufficient.
Our societyin general lives by the standard expressed by John Stuart Mill. Someone
summarized it in the expression “Get all you can. Can all you get.”
But God calls Christians to live selflessly. Today we may have to settle for the satisfaction
of knowing what we have done is right in the future, the God who keeps impeccable
records will take care of the rewards.
Are you facing a thankless task? Are your efforts going unsung and unpraised? Don’t be
concerned. Do what you know is right and remember that, someday, your Heavenly Father
will see to your rewards.

A MAN ALL WRAPPED UP IN HIMSELF MAKES A PRETTY SMALL
PACKAGE. WOODROW KROLL
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