Esther 5
From Esther's Journal
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King Xerxes and Haman, the man he promoted to second power in the kingdom, sat at the banquet table. I had invited them to a special meal in their honor.
The food was delicious and both men were very pleased. They ate until finally sitting back on their chair and rubbing their stomachs.
The king smiled at me. "You have served us such a fine meal.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." I turned to the servants and signaled them to fill the king's and Haman's goblets with new wine.
King Xerxes took a sip and set his goblet on the table. "Now, please tell me. What did you want or need? Whatever it is, I will be give it to you. So, what is your request? Even up to half of the kingdom, whatever you ask, it will be granted to you."
I watched his face and wondered if I should tell him about Haman's evil plan to kill the Jews. My stomach felt a bit sick. I took that as a sign that I should not tell him yet. I thought, what should I ask to stall for one more day? Well, the king seemed really pleased I had invited him and Haman to a banquet. That's it. I'll arranged another banquet for the two of them tomorrow.
I bowed and answered him, "My king, my request is this: If the king thinks of me with favor, and if it pleases the king to grant my request, fulfilling my wishes, let the king and Haman come tomorrow to the banquet I will prepare for them. Then, I promise, I will answer the king's question."
Both the king and Haman seemed very pleased with this idea.
"You can count on my presence, Your highness." Haman said and bowed to me.
I don't think he will be very happy when he hears me tell the king of his plan to kill my people tomorrow.
The king walked with Haman out the door. "You see, Haman, I told you Esther was a good choice. Not only is she beautiful, but she is also gracious. Yes, she is a wonderful queen for Babylon."
"Indeed she is, my king."
...come back to read what happens next.
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sources: New International Version, New King James Version
1. Who attended the banquet?
2. Was the king pleased?
3. What did he want to do for Esther?
4. What did Haman think about the idea?
5. Why did Esther decide to wait to tell the king?
2. Was the king pleased?
3. What did he want to do for Esther?
4. What did Haman think about the idea?
5. Why did Esther decide to wait to tell the king?
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