That’s where we find Esther in the story, right after that fateful banquet.
King Ahasuerus, still riding high on the wine and the atmosphere, repeats his offer. He's practically begging her: "Ask anything, Esther! Anything at all, and it's yours. Except," he adds, with a hint of stubbornness, "except the Temple. That's off-limits."
But Esther, ever the shrewd strategist, isn't ready to play her hand. Not yet. Why? Well, she’s playing the long game. She understands timing. The text mentions her drawing inspiration from Moses himself. Remember when Moses prepared for a whole day before facing Amalek? (Exodus 17:9-13). Amalek, you see, was considered the ancestor of Haman – a connection fraught with meaning. So, Esther needs a day to prepare before her confrontation with Haman. One day can make all the difference.
And what about Haman? Oh, he's having a day.
He’s positively giddy! He's been invited to not one, but two private banquets with the King and Queen. He thinks he's the bee's knees, the cat's pajamas, the… well, you get the idea. He’s absolutely convinced that he's the most important person in the entire kingdom.
The text tells us he's "deceived by the attention and distinction accorded him by Esther." He believes he’s got the king's favor, the queen's respect… What could possibly go wrong? He’s puffed up with pride, completely blind to the trap being set for him. He is blinded by his own ego.
It reminds you, doesn’t it, how easily we can misread situations when our own desires and ego get in the way? How often do we see what we want to see, rather than what's actually there? Haman’s overconfidence becomes his downfall, a potent reminder of the dangers of unchecked ego. What a setup for tomorrow’s revelation!