Est 4-7

I am struck by Esther's initial response to Mordecai's fasting. She wants to cover up his passionate display, and when he seeks to involve her, she tries to excuse herself. Mordecai has to appeal to her self-interest before she responds. Can a parallel be drawn with the Church today? Is the west the "Esther" church, almost embarassed by the unsophisticated practices of the "Mordecai" church in Africa, China and the Americas, that fast often and pray throughout the night, and who wear their faith publicly? Will we receive Mordecai's challenge today?