“For such a time as this...”
Melanie frowned. What?
“For such a time as this...”
Her favorite story when she was a young girl was that of Queen Esther. Mordecai called on Queen Esther to save her people, though it put her own life at risk.
“If the need becomes more urgent...”Was she being called? Was thishertime?
If only she had Mum’s courage! But she didn’t. She’d grown so ...fearful. Timid.
When did that happen?
Chaisley wasalwaysready to take on the world. She often challenged Melanie to step out of her comfortable, predictable life.
Dr. Grafton’s eyes softened. “I understand that this is a lot for you, but I’ve seen how fiercely protective you are of Chaisley. I’ve seen how passionate you are about bringing people hope.”
He tapped the letter from Mum.
“Maybe this will help more than I ever could. Just know that I will always be there for you. Always. If I need to travel across Europe to help you in some way, just say the word.”
Her heart swelled. She loved this man like a father. “Thank you, Dr. Grafton.”
“I’m sure we’ll talk much more before you leave so I’m going to go check on Chais now. The piece she’s been writing sounds like it takes at least ten hands to play.” He shook his head as he stood. “I’m sure God has an amazing plan for this trip, Melanie. He’s going to use you both in mighty ways.”
He tipped his hat and walked back toward the house.
Once he was out of sight, she looked down at the envelopes in her hands. Mum’s called to her with such a longing that she shoved the other into her pocket and ripped into the worn envelope. How long had Dr. Grafton carried this around with him?
She unfolded the paper and read.
Dearest Daughter,
You have been the light of my life. I have mourned the fact that I will not see the day you get married, or get to hold my grandchildren. But ... I am rejoicing in a way that you cannot fathom. Soon and very soon I will get to see Jesus’ face.
When we left Germany, I saw you retreat into yourself. You became afraid of a new life—a new country, new people, and a new language. It took almost two years for me to see my brave little girl again. Please, my darling ... don’t retreat into fear when I’m gone. You are older and so much wiser now. You have a wonderful job working with Chaisley. I asked Dr. Grafton to hold this for a while so you could grieve and find your footing again, but if, by chance, you find yourself afraid of life without me, go and read the book of Esther.
Melanie’s heart fluttered. Esther.
She closed her eyes.Father God ... I don’t know what You’re doing, but I’m listening.
She inhaled the sweet fragrance of the garden long and deep, then lifted her shoulders and read on.
It was your favorite Bible story when you were little, and I believe it helped you to finally move past whatever held you back.
Melanie blinked back more tears. Mum never pushed her to get over her grief and was always right there whenever she was afraid. But Mum was also a great encourager. How many times had Melanie requested to read the story of Esther? And her mother had told her she was just as brave as Esther.
Funny, as a child, she hadn’t understood the depth of the story, but she clung to another girl swallowing her fear. Now, it resonated and thrummed within her chest.
What was God asking of her?
She had no idea. Other than to step forward in faith and let go of her fear.
But fear had become a bit comfortable. She thought of herself as the voice of reason. Keeping a realistic view of the world. Not pessimistic. Not optimistic.
Shaking her head, she cleared her mind and went back to her mother’s letter.
You have the potential to change the world, my sweet Mel. I don’t know how the good Lord will use you, but in my mother’s heart, I know Hewill. Don’t be afraid, precious daughter. I pray you cling to Him and seek to know Him more and more each day.
