27/9/2009 Proper 21

Theme: A lesson from Esther

Bible Reading

Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22

Preparation

Find a suitable version of the story of Esther. If possible, find a greger (rattle waved at Jewish festival of Purim) and some percussion instruments. Look out some pictures of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ characters eg Saddam Hussein, Mother Teresa, Jesus, Henry VIII, Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, the wolf and Red Riding Hood, Gandalf and Sauruman etc.

Introduction

Look at the pictures and ask them to consider what makes goodies and baddies.
Explain that the story of Esther is read at the Jewish festival of Purim which celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people. When the story is read from a handwritten scroll (megillah) children are encouraged to wave rattles similar to those used at football matches (Haman gregers) to drown the sound of the villain’s (Haman) name.

The Message

Tell the story of Esther (edited highlights concentrating on Esther’s courage would be best!) directing the pupils to jeer/ wave rattles/ instruments whenever Haman’s name is mentioned.

Ask the pupils why Haman was bad (because he put himself before everyone else) and why Esther was good (because she put everyone else before herself)

Look at some pictures of ordinary people; photographs of the children/teachers?!

Explain that most people are mixtures of bad and good. Christians believe that God wants us all to be ‘goodies’ and that, with his help, we can be.

Prayer

Perhaps begin with some quiet reflection considering how we can try to put others before ourselves; be ‘goodies’.

Lord, make us instruments of Thy peace
Where there is hatred, let us sow love
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is discord, union
Where there is doubt, faith
Where there is darkness, light
Where there is sadness, joy.
Grant that we may not seek so muchTo be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand;
To be loved as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive,
In pardoning that we are pardoned, and in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen
St Francis of Assisi