“Esther also was taken.” Esther 2:8

With all the liberties I enjoy in my circumstances, I quickly forget the realities of oppression.

I once thought Esther a lucky woman. Her purity and beauty was such, she was noticed by the king’s men and escorted to the palace. Bathed in sweet scents and expensive oils for months, I wondered how soft my skin would feel after that kind of attention. The shine of her hair, the pampering of her nails, every callous soothed, every muscle like butter.

But then I pray and read this morning and the Holy Spirit enlightens me in a brand new way.

Esther’s freedom was taken away. She was likely carried out the door without packing one thing. Suddenly the comforts she received from her loved one, was done. Everything that felt like home was stripped in an instant. Her future no longer guarded by a loyal, protective uncle—she was eye-candy for a self absorbed king.

And suddenly all the physical luxuries don’t mean a thing.

“Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon the earth that I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart fail; but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:25-26)