“Keep the money,” the king said to Haman, “and do with the people as you please.” (Est. 3:11)
Expanded Passage: Esther 2:19 23; 3:1 6, 8-11
Haman didn’t need a sword—just a suggestion. He whispered about a dangerous people, a people who were “different” (Est. 3:8), and the king handed him power. Evil often spreads through unchecked words, through fear and suspicion.
History reminds us how dangerous this can be. From subjugation of people groups throughout the world, to racist remarks in our own neighborhoods today, we are well-acquainted with the ugliness that comes from seeing others as objects to be dealt with, rather than people to be loved. But that temptation isn’t just out in the world; it’s also within our own spirits. We need to look inside, to where resentment grows and whispers about those who are “other” are believed. When our table is full of people who exclusively look, think, and act like us, we begin to see anyone else as “different,” perhaps even dangerous.
One of the best ways to stop viewing others as objects is to learn to love them as neighbors. Having others over for a meal, especially people who aren’t like you—intentionally going into spaces you don’t yet understand and approaching them as a learner—are the artifacts of good neighboring that push back against the spirit of Haman. Heaven will be full of people different than us; we might as well get some practice living with them now.
Offer a neighboring act to someone new.
Ethan Linder is the pastor of discipleship at College Wesleyan Church (IN) and contributing editor for Education and Clergy Development of The Wesleyan Church.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
