How courageous are you? The truth is, we may not want to find out! Situations that test our courage are often situations fraught with danger. This week's sermon will be focused on the Book of Esther. The Book of Esther is an often forgotten book of the Bible, yet is as thrilling as any suspense novel of our day. The lectionary selections do not truly do the story justice, so, if you are interested, I would encourage you to read the whole book. (It's pretty short!)

In it, Esther finds herself in the position of being able to help her community only at the expense of her own safety. To stand up for her people, she is required to disobey the laws and customs of her day. With the support of her uncle, and the whole community of faith, she steps out in a courageous act which results in salvation for the Jewish people.

What situations today call for us to be courageous? How can we improve the lives of those around us through our words and actions? What unjust situations are we led to confront despite the personal risk? How are we called to follow Esther's example?