Daniel 1:1-12; Daniel 6:1-9; Esther 2:1-10, 20; Esther 3:1-15; Esther 4:1-14; Esther 9:1-12.

 “‘I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth’” (Isaiah 49:6, NRSV).

 One of the most inspiring accounts of “cross-cultural ministry” in the Bible can be found in the book of Esther. A great deal has been written over the millennia about this book, and to this day many Jews celebrate the feast of Purim, based on Esther 9:26-31.

 Esther and Mordecai, her cousin, were Jews living in the capital of the Persian Empire, Susa. For whatever reason, unlike other Jews who had returned to Judah, they, along with others, remained in the land of their captivity.

 Then, through a series of providences, Esther becomes queen. “The king loved Esther more than all the other women, and she obtained grace and favor in his sight more than all the virgins; so he set the royal crown upon her head and made her queen instead of Vashti” (Esther 2:17).

 It was in this role that Esther, even if somewhat reluctantly, was able to play a major part in biblical history. In its own unique way, this story shows how God’s people, even in foreign environments, can witness for truth.

 Whatever your time allows, read (or skim through) the book of Esther for this week’s study.

 *Study this week’s lesson to prepare for Sabbath, December 23.