Dearest Tribe Members,
The Book of Esther- A story for all children of God
God works in mysterious, miraculous, and hidden ways. He is a loving, patient and forgiving Father. He always watches over His children and His ways are higher than ours.
This month celebrates Purim from the Book of Esther in the Bible. In the story Queen Esther’s true identity remains hidden until the last hour. When she hears of the plan to exterminate all Jewish people in 127 provinces, she calls for a collective fast and prays for 3 days. She then reveals her true identity which would normally be grounds for her death. However, through an incredible series of events, the evil Haman’s plan is thwarted and he is hung by the same gallows he made for others. I encourage you to read the whole story as it shows how Adonai, our Lord, hears our prayers and works in mysterious ways.
There are many layers of meanings in this Book of the Tanakh/Old Testament. One that that I would like to highlight is the power of prayer and fasting.
Matthew 17:21 NKJV
21 "However, this kind (demon) does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”
In this verse Yeshua/Jesus Christ instructs his disciples on the importance of praying and fasting when dealing with strong powers and principalities.
Wow. What important information for all of us at this very moment in time. However, this important knowledge has not been taught in many churches. I also find it distressing to know that many translations have simply omitted verse 21 from the book of Matthew in the Bible. Look at all of your Bibles at home to see which ones still have this verse. This tells me that the demons fear this knowledge.
The call for a community fast and prayer is highlighted in Queen Esther’s story. Remembering this event by repeating the fast collectively every year is a time of national unity when all of the hearts and prayers of the Jewish people are directed toward a common goal. This sense of togetherness seems to have played an important – if not instrumental – role in the Jews’ path towards redemption. Imagine the power of many fasting prayer warriors in synchrony. God hears this and He provides miracles.
It also points to the possibility of personal salvation. Esther put her life on the line for her people. Her success would mean protection and survival for all of them; her failure would take her own life.
And Esther prevailed. Her prayer, and the prayers of her people, were heard in the heavens. Not only was her life spared, she became the vehicle of redemption for her people.
Esther's Fast carries with it an added layer of hope: that an individual can find redemption even in the face of terrible, threatening circumstances.
This story is for ALL of God’s children. Imagine the power of many fasting prayer warriors in synchrony. Remember we are grafted into the tree with the Jewish people, and we are one.
Ephesians 4:4-6 NKJV
4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
In honor of Purim, I will be fasting on March 22nd. If you feel called to do so, please join me. Fasting is a way to express our devotion and gratitude to God, and it allows us to focus more intently on our prayers. We will have more Call to Prayer meetings during this time as well.
Above all, let us remember the importance of unity and community, as we honor the memory of those who fought for our freedom and celebrate the power of individuals to make a difference in the world.
I write this with great love and many blessings.
Your Sister in Christ,
Carrie Madej
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