Purim is a festival that commemorates Esther’s courage and actions. The book of Esther is unique in the Bible because it never explicitly mentions God. However, that does not mean God’s hand isn’t evident throughout the story.

The events in Esther take place during the Jewish exile in Persia. Forces within Persian society sought to annihilate the Jewish people, but Esther, a Jew, had risen to a position of influence as queen. Her Jewish identity was a secret, and she could have remained silent, living a comfortable and privileged life in the palace. However, her uncle Mordecai reminded her that she was in her position for a purpose. Choosing courage over comfort, Esther risked her life and her status to act, and through her, God saved the Jewish people.

Passover reminds us of God’s deliverance of His people from bondage, while the story of Esther shows that even when the children of Israel were in exile as a result of their disobedience, God was still faithful to preserve them. The story highlights that God is at work, even when His name isn’t explicitly invoked.

The same truth applies to us. As John Piper once tweeted, “God is always doing 10,000 things in your life, and you may be aware of three of them.” Even when God seems silent, He is working behind the scenes for your good.

One Purim tradition involves children dressing up as characters from the Esther story and delivering care packages to those in need. While it may sound similar to Halloween, the focus is different: children wear costumes that point to Scripture rather than themselves, and instead of asking for treats, they give to those in need.

Take a moment to reflect on your own life. When have you seen evidence of God working in the background to preserve and sustain you, even when you weren’t actively seeking Him? Thank Him for His provision and His presence in your story, even in the moments when it wasn’t immediately clear.

Next, think about how you can give to others during this season of receiving. Is there a charity you could support? A neighbor who might appreciate a delivery of Thanksgiving leftovers and some conversation? Perhaps, like Esther, you have been placed exactly where you are “for such a time as this.”