Women 3

The next woman whose story is set before us as example and incentive is Queen Esther. Again the complete story must be read and it will be found to possess a fascinating power. All we would stress here is that Esther began life as a poor orphan child, having lost both her parents. Yet, though she was so helpless, God, Who takes care of the orphans, guided her step by step to the most eminent position in her country.

Often the Catholic mother is harassed with anxious thoughts about the future of her children. It is right that she should be. But it is Our Lord's concern to assure her, as she kneels here with Him in prayer, that His love for those children and His anxiety exceed those of all the most worthy and devoted parents put together. Little Esther is a comforting example of this splendid truth. God took away her father and mother, but He left Mardochai, her uncle, who adopted her as a daughter. There are many indications, in this story, of Esther's gratitude to him and her docility in submitting to his directions. He had trained her well , and she responded by an affectionate obedience that reflected credit on his training.

Jesus, to You I commit the children Your heavenly Father has given to us. Seal them as Your own. Lead them, as God led Esther, by the paths He wills for them to walk in. Never let human ambition or pride interfere with the perfect accomplishment of His plan, for our God knows all and He is a God Who loves. In what hands could the children we love find more assurance of security and guidance and protection and healing?