“For how can I bear to see the calamity that is coming on my people? Or how can I bear to see the destruction of my kindred?” Esther 8:6. Esther was in a difficult position. She was married to the king and knew of a plot to attack the Jewish people, her people, for she was Jewish but had hid that identity from the king. She risked a great deal by speaking up for the people. Instead of passive silence she chose to speak up and advocate for those that could not. Her bravery resulted in the saving of the Jewish people as the king listened to her and stopped the plan to harm them. When we see others in pain or persecuted, we are called to follow Esther’s example and speak up. We are called to use our voices to help those that have no voice. Our call as followers of Christ is to love our neighbors, and that includes all our neighbors, every living thing God has created and placed on this earth with us. Where there is injustice and oppression we must stand up, knowing God stands with us, and do what we can to make it right. Use your voice! Use your gifts! Share the love of the King of all creation with all creation! Prayer: “Lord God, my strength and shield, give me courage to speak for those who cannot and to bring love to those who have never felt it. Amen.”