Quote by Jill Eileen Smith

“Cries of joy rose in the city as copies of the decree were fastened to the walls of the king's gate and at prominent places throughout the capital. Esther stood near, watching the frantic work. Awe that God had used her for this moment caused joy to rise up within her. When she heard the singing and laughter of the people outside, she wanted to weep and dance at the same time. Was this why You placed me here, Adonai? She had always wondered what possible reason there could have been for her to be so chosen. Surely other women were more beautiful than she. Surely other women had captured Xerxes' heart. With a Persian wife in Amestris who had given him sons, there had been no need for him to seek another wife. Even if he missed Vashti, it wasn't like he needed more. And yet here she stood, watching her father, second in command to the throne, write letters to every satrap, governor, high officer, and noble in all 127 provinces of her husband's kingdom. All because God saw fit to use her. Her. Hadassah. Her face heated with the humbling thought. How unworthy she felt, yet how blessed.”

Quote by Jill Eileen Smith