The king was so angry that he got up, left his wine, and went out into the palace garden. Haman realized that the king had already decided what to do with him, and he stayed and begged Esther to save his life. Just as the king came back into the room, Haman got down on his knees beside Esther, who was lying on the couch. The king shouted, "Now you're even trying to rape my queen here in my own palace!" As soon as the king said this, his servants covered Haman's head.
(Esther 7:7-8, CEV)
Believe it or not, I feel pity for Haman. Just some, but pity I do feel. His story is not as rare as we might think. While Haman is certainly culpable for the choices he makes, so much of who he is directly results from a long line of hatred and prejudice.
So many have been raised to hate others because of their race or cultural background or religious beliefs. While they may not plan to annihilate those they hate, many choose to hurt them through words or other ways of rejection.
And now Haman’s heritage has caught up with him. The choices he’s made are going to bring about his own demise.
Ask yourself. Is there anyone against whom you’re prejudiced? Do you look down on someone just because you were raised to do so?
Don’t make Haman’s mistake. Don’t let hatred for a people be your own undoing.
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