King Xerxes, a.k.a. Ahasuerus, was ruler of the Medio-Persian Empire during the early fifth century before Christ. It is noted in the Scriptures that part of the protocol of Xerxes' court was that no one could approach him, unless first being summoned, without risking a death sentence. Even his wife, Esther, was bound by this jeopardy. One can understand that a busy monarch can't be interrupted by trifles when attending to business, but a possible execution? For family members?
As a king, Xerxes was certainly powerful: his dominion extended from Greece to India. As a man, however, his character seemed to be somewhat average. The Biblical narrative attributes both strengths and weaknesses to him. So what right did he have to act as if he exuded unapproachable glory?
King Jesus dwells in such glory. His dominion is from one end of the universe to the other. His character is "holy, holy, holy." Yet he bids all of us, whether rulers or ruffians, satraps or squatters, princes or paupers, "Come." However, just as Queen Esther thoroughly prepared herself with fasting and beauty treatments when she approached her husband Xerxes on an urgent matter, so must we prepare ourselves for an audience with the King of Kings. First, humble yourself and acknowledge that you are a sinner unworthy of the Lord's favor. Then believe in Christ's life, death, and resurrection, trusting that the blood he shed can wash away the unworthiness from you. Then, as the Bible says, "boldly approach the throne of grace." The Lord is not too busy for you.
