The book of Esther is unique amongst the books of the Bible in that God is not mentioned. There is not even a whisper of an angel (bringing a warning message Matthew 2:12-13) or a prophet declaring God's purposes for Esther (1 Samuel 16:13). But for those with eyes to see the book has a "God at Work" sign stamped on it.

In Esther 2 we read of arrangements for a grand beauty contest with lots of beautiful young woman being brought from far and wide to the citadel of Susa for the contest.

Realised today that there was one young woman who was not brought to the citadel of Susa - Esther. That's because she was already there - living with her uncle Mordecai.

In Esther 1:5 we read that all the citizens of Susa, from least to the greatest, had been invited to a grand banquet in the King's private garden. Most likely Mordecai and Esther had been amongst those attending (there is nothing to suggest Mordecai was a stout Republican who would refuse to stoop to such occassions). Maybe they had witnessed the King after he had had too much to drink, not realising the impact it would have on their lives!

Just underlines how unwanted circumstances (Esther 2:6-7) had positioned Mordecai and Esther at the right place and right time. Scary, being in an 'unwanted season' of my life - what is Father God positioning me for? Might I 'blow it'! I recall, with tears, what I wrote the other day in God Working all Things Together for Good.

God is good. I don't have to be where I want to be or have what I want in order to be able to declare 'God is good'!