When the world breaks your heart, do you still have the strength to keep it open?
As Modern-Day Esthers, you are called precisely for such a time as this—to pray without ceasing, advocate fearlessly for Israel, and stand firm when weariness tempts retreat. You know that doing good is costly, even painful, when tragedy overwhelms entire communities, like the devastating floods that recently swept through Kerrville, Texas, claiming innocent lives and shaking our hearts to the core. Yet, in moments when heartbreak seems insurmountable, Christ's command remains unchanged: love your neighbor. It is in such difficult seasons that your faithfulness matters most—your prayers powerful, your voice vital, your generosity transformative.
Never tire of doing what is good, the Apostle Paul urges (2 Thessalonians 3:13). Yet how do we remain steadfast when our generosity is misused, our kindness met with indifference, or when human frailty tests our compassion to the breaking point? Scripture reminds us that every cup of cold water offered in Christ’s name—every prayer whispered, every dollar given, every hand extended in comfort—has eternal significance beyond our understanding. Even when confronted by the “takers” who drain our patience, we must discern wisely yet continue to extend grace. “It is a loss, perhaps, to give to a man who wastes,” Charles Spurgeon cautioned, “but it will be a greater loss not to give at all.”
Meanwhile, we see how persistence and boldness yield remarkable fruit beyond immediate view. President Donald Trump’s recent Nobel Peace Prize nomination reflects this truth. Despite criticism and controversy, Trump has advanced peace by brokering historic agreements, including the Abraham Accords, securing ceasefires between Israel, Hamas, and Iran, and forging ahead with a vision of peace through strength and financial prosperity. His efforts promise to reshape the Middle East, bringing stability and hope for decades to come. Is this not a lesson for us—that tireless pursuit of good, of peace, and of righteousness, even amid opposition, can indeed change history?
Right now, in the aftermath of Kerrville’s floods, communities gather in grief yet shine in resilience. Candles flicker, prayers ascend, neighbors bind together in love, and hope slowly reawakens. Even amid overwhelming loss, God’s goodness is evident. And as Esthers, you too are called to such moments, to stand courageously in the gap between despair and hope, to embody the truth that God’s mercies are new every morning.
Today, do not lose heart. Pray boldly. Advocate passionately. Give generously. You were created, chosen, and placed exactly where you are, not by chance—but for such a time as this.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9
