Hidden Goodness

As the air crisps up and the trees trade their summer greens for the deep golds and fiery reds of fall (have you seen our campus???), it’s hard not to pause and reflect on the goodness of God. There’s something about this season — the rhythm of harvest and tradition, the slow fading of light, the gathering warmth around crockpot meals. To me, it's the invitation of gratitude. And in many ways, the Book of Esther mirrors this same theme: quiet transitions, unseen movements, and the steady, faithful hand of God working behind the scenes to change the story.

One of the remarkable things about Esther is that God’s name as we read it in the English text is not mentioned and yet His presence is everywhere. In Esther’s courage, in Mordecai’s wisdom, in the sleepless night of a king — every turn of the story reveals divine providence working through human choices.

It’s a reminder that even when God feels silent or hidden, He is never absent. God’s plan is powerful and His character is faithful, bringing about redemption in ways we often recognize only in hindsight.

Have you ever considered that fall is a season of trust? Farmers have gathered the harvest, but the fields now rest. Trees let go of what once gave them life. Nature itself demonstrates a faith that the Creator’s plan will continue — that what dies will rise again.

Esther’s story carries the same truth. She risked everything with the words, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). We witness a surrender born not of despair but of deep faith that her life was held by a greater hand. In our own seasons of uncertainty, we can rest in that same truth: God’s timing is perfect, even when we cannot see it. What are you uncertain about that you need to surrender to the Hand who holds it all?

As we move closer to the holidays — to Thanksgiving’s gratitude, Advent’s anticipation, and Christmas’s joy — Esther’s story points us forward to our Deliverer.
Just as God raised Esther “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14) to save the Jewish people, He sent Jesus at the perfect time to bring salvation to those who believe in Him. Esther’s courage opened the door for her people’s deliverance; Christ’s sacrifice opened the way for our eternal redemption. And it reminds us that no matter how uncertain the times, hope always has a name: Jesus.

So as you sip your cider, wrap up in sweaters, and watch the leaves fall (or Sunday football), take time to notice the subtle beauty of God’s faithfulness. He is present in every detail — from the turning of the seasons to the turning of our hearts toward Him.

May this fall be more than just a transition of weather and crockpot meals (though they are tasty!). May it be a season of renewed trust, grateful reflection, and hope anchored in Jesus, the One who works all things — seen and unseen — for our good. Because He is good.