Faithful and True

A queen stands in peril before an earthly throne; the heavens open, and the true King rides forth in judgment. These readings teach one lesson: faith does not hide when righteousness is costly. Esther does not preserve her people by ease, but by fasting, courage, and timely speech. Clement praises her as one who was “afflicted with fastings,” and by faith overturned a cruel decree. So the servants of God are not excused from danger; they are summoned to obedience within it.

The song in heaven answers Esther’s struggle on a greater scale. There the Lord is praised because His judgments are true, because He avenges the blood of His servants, and because corruption does not reign forever. The King who appears is not uncertain or flattering, but “Faithful and True,” warring in justice. Cyprian says, “He who sate upon him was called Faithful and True, judging rightly and justly; and He made war.” Therefore let no one make peace with sin, whether in the city or in his own members. Christ comes not only to console but to judge, to strike down falsehood by the sword of His mouth.

So let your faith be proved in deeds. Fast when fear would make you soft. Speak truth when silence protects your comfort. Refuse the banquet of the world’s vanity, for another supper has been prepared—the marriage supper of the Lamb. Blessed are those found clean, steadfast, and obedient when He appears.