Cousins are important

I grew up with many cousins from both sides of the family. But because of my years overseas studying and my busy corporate life, I did not keep up with them much. In a way I wish I did because they all need Jesus. It was especially sad when one cousin passed away without knowing Jesus. However, in history there was a famous pair of cousins where one raised the other and they became very close.

Esther 2:7, And Mordecai had brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle’s daughter, for she had neither father nor mother. The young woman was lovely and beautiful. When her father and mother died, Mordecai took her as his own daughter.

Esther was given the best beauty treatment of her time. 12 months of it. I am not sure what was actually done, but maybe some of the ladies reading this have done some research on this. But the important reason she got the best was that she pleased the eunuch and found favor.

Esther 2:9, Now the young woman pleased him, and she obtained his favor; so he readily gave beauty preparations to her, besides her allowance. Then seven choice maidservants were provided for her from the king’s palace, and he moved her and her maidservants to the best place in the house of the women.

She excelled and became queen. She further gained favor with the king because her cousin overheard 2 eunuchs wanting to kill the king. Esther brought it to the king's attention, and after some investigation it was found to be true. Esther naturally gained great standing with the king. But, not just her but Mordecai because she attributed the information to him.

Esther 2:22, So the matter became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai’s name.

This is too perfect a plot. Everything seems to have been orchestrated. Right from Esther losing her parents, being looked after by Mordecai, Vashti losing her position, Esther being picked and receiving favor from the Eunuch, Esther being picked out of the many to be queen, and Mordecai in the right place at the right time to hear the plot.

Father, you are the hidden hand. I should not think too hard. I should just focus on seeking first your kingdom and your righteousness.

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