In the World–April 19, 2020

Download “In the World” for April 19, 2020 here.

INJUSTICE AMID CORRUPTION

Earlier this month, an injustice was committed in Pakistan. Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheik, the mastermind behind the kidnapping and gruesome murder of journalist Daniel Pearl (in 2002), was acquitted of murder and had his sentence reduced to kidnapping only. He is likely to be released soon for time already served. Three other violent Islamists who had been convicted in the same crime likewise had their convictions overturned in a move that a source said “reeks of corruption.” Hopefully, those who have spoken out against such corruption will continue to do so.

JUSTICE DESPITE CORRUPTION

In the days of Queen Esther, the Jewish exiles in Babylon faced the very real threat of extermination because of the machinations of Haman. Esther relied on wisdom, intelligence, charm, and the prayers of many to gain the king’s favor enough to expose Haman’s plot. With only days to spare, justice prevailed, and Haman was executed on the apparatus he had constructed to kill Esther’s cousin Mordecai. Despite the evil intentions of man, God can bring about justice to His people.

1. When has injustice touched someone you care about?
2. What injustice have you seen corrected in your life?
3. How might you have been placed by God “for such a time as this” as you walk through this current pandemic?

Additional Resources

• Music Video, Traditional: “Shall We Gather at the River?”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Covered” by Israel & Newbreed
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Light Up” by LIFE Worship
• The Pulpit Commentary on Esther 7
• Gill’s Exposition of Esther 7
• Coffman’s Commentary on Esther 7

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