It seemed that all was lost. Haman had convinced the king to annihilate a group of people he hated. King Ahasuerus agreed to an edict commanding non-Jewish citizens of his kingdom to murder all their Jewish neighbors and confiscate their goods on a specific day. But although He is never specifically mentioned, a careful reader can see God’s hand protecting His people.

Mordecai convinced his young cousin, Queen Esther, to approach the king to ask for the lives of her people. Even though she risked death by entering the king’s presence, she chose to put herself on the line. For three days the Jews in the citadel of Susa fasted for the queen. On the third day Esther boldly approached the throne. Providentially she found favor in the king’s eyes, and he held out his golden scepter in acceptance of her visit. “What is troubling you, Queen Esther? And what is your request?” the king questioned.

Knowing her husband and the customs of the day, Esther held off making her real request and invited the king and Haman to a feast she had prepared. The curious and enchanted king quickly accepted and called for Haman to prepare for the banquet. As they ate and drank the king repeated his desire to know Esther’s request. Again, Esther put off her appeal and invited them both to another feast the following day.