ESTHER 2:21-23: In those days; while Mordecai sat within the king’s gate, two of the king’s eunuchs,
Bigthan and Teresh, 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 chronicles in 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.
This stands 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 Mordecai valor to the king’s attention, for the moment the loyal
Jew’s only satisfaction was knowing he did what was right. But for Mordecai, knowing he had done
the right thing was sufficient.
Our society in 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.