Ruth & Esther
Homework—February 4, 2026
There are two important stories in the Bible that revolve very specifically around women. They are also the only two books in the Bible named after the women in their pages.
The story of Ruth helps make the genealogical connection between Jesus and David. Its importance is clear. It’s a little harder to understand why Esther’s story is in the Bible. Next week, we’ll talk more about Ruth (and her mother-in-law, Naomi). Today, you get to learn about Esther.
Esther’s story takes place in 539 BCE—AFTER the Babylonian Exile. Esther was a Jewish girl who lived in the Persian Empire with her cousin, Mordecai, who had adopted her as his daughter when her own parents died.
The story of Esther is told during the Jewish holiday of Purim, and is meant to be a bit silly and very engaging. People ‘boo’ when the villain Haman is mentioned.
Esther’s story is also unique in that it never mentions God. And still, God’s presence is felt and honored among God’s people. So first, have some fun with these videos so that you get a sense of the story and the celebration.
Story of Esther:
Read Esther 4:13-17
Mordecai tells Esther that maybe it’s for this very reason (to save her people) that she was chosen to be queen.
Have you ever felt like you were in the right place at the right time to make a difference?
How often to you talk about God in your everyday life?
How do you think the acts of bravery by Mordecai and Esther examples of God’s presence and their faithfulness?
Though we often don’t talk about God with our friends and family, God is still part of our decisions and values. In Esther, though they never mentioned God, their faith influenced how they responded to Haman’s actions.
Give some examples of bravery that you have encountered—either in your own life or that you’ve heard about in the world.
When have you felt like God was absent?
God is part of every story, even when we aren’t talking about God or even looking for God. List some things that look or feel like God even though we don’t use God’s name to talk about them (i.e., courage, peace, etc.)
Extra points—1 sermon note: Try making Hamantaschen Cookies with your family. Feel free to bring some to class next week!
