76. Hidden Star

Her name means "hidden star."

She was hidden for a long time, and revealed at the crucial moment. Yet, at that point in time, she powerfully emitted the piercing rays of salvation with the mighty support of the king, her maids, and her people.

That she "won the favor of everyone who saw her" is constantly repeated. While her true identity and purpose were hidden, she humbly listened to the experienced (2:15) and diligently established good relationships with all those around her. That is how she won favor.

Then, the time came--the opportunity for the star to be revealed. From her previous good relations came a group of maids to fast with her, all the Jews in the city to fast for her, and a kind king who would grant her request. She saved the Jews with such an influential momentum that "many people of other nationalities [even] became Jews" (8:17).

In order for our stars to shine their brightest, we must learn from the ways of the hidden star who won the favor of everyone who saw her. Though she remained hidden for most of her story life, she did not waste that time. She patiently built good relations with everyone.