For Such a Time As This
Elspeth Young (1984– )
- Medium
United States
2007
Oil on panel
53 × 39.25 in.
Church History Museum Collection- Purchase Award
- Purchase Award
"In this artwork, Queen Esther is shown in an attitude of prayer and supplication. She has concluded her three-day fast, a preparation for her supplication before the Persian King Ahasuerus. The theme of this artwork is the power of fasting coupled with prayer. Indeed, as Isaiah states, 'Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, . . . and to let the oppressed go free. . . . Thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer' (Isaiah 58:6, 8–9). Esther’s plea was heard, and her people were released from the wicked edict. The title of the piece recalls the words of Mordecai to Esther when he invited her to make a stand for right" (Esther 4:14).