When we purchase an item, we gain ownership of that item. If it is a house, then we are given a deed in our name. If we cut a deal on a new car, we hold a title that proves our ownership. Yet, how do we prove title to things like refrigerators, laptops, and sofas?
We hold onto the receipt as proof of purchase.
The book of Esther is only ten chapters long. It is the story of a woman who became queen and risked her life to save her people. Even the secular world sees glamor in the life of Esther, featuring this dazzling story in magnificent theatrical productions.
However, what about Esther’s cousin, Mordecai? How does he play out in this fascinating story?
Mordecai held onto his receipt.
What does that mean, held onto his receipt? Mordecai was a Jew at a time when the Jews were a despised people. It would have been easy for Mordecai to abandon his people and seek the wealth of this world. His cousin was now the queen, and he had inside connections to the palace itself. He was in an enviable position.
Yet, he sought the welfare of his people, instead. He held onto his receipt as a member of the Jewish people. He claimed his heritage over the wealth of this world.
Esther 10:1-3 tells us that the king taxed the land, then wrote down all his mighty works and all that he had done, recording it forever. Then he declared the greatness of Mordecai.
Only one of these records still stands. We can read of the story of Mordecai, while the records of the king have faded into the remnants of history. Why? The king sought the wealth of the world, while Mordecai sought the wealth of his people.
God did not require Mordecai to do the impossible, only that for which he held a receipt. God needed Mordecai to be one of his people, and to live up to that name.
When we live out who God made us to be, we will become who he wants us to be.
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