“Esther serves as an example for how to bravely deal with political powers, judicial leaders, government officials, college administrators, CEOs, and denominational hierarchy as we pursue reconciliation and equity for all people.”

In this thoughtful and equipping book, Dr. McNeil uses Esther’s story as a guiding example of individual engagement with injustice. She mixes in personal anecdotes, current events, and theological reflections to talk about the urgency of racial reconciliation (in the church and in broader American society) and how we would be remiss to not heed that call. At one point, when examining Esther’s famous line (“If I perish, I perish,” verse 4:16), Dr. McNeil observes: “She decided to join in God’s reparative work in the world, knowing full well that there were no promises that everything would turn out okay. And that’s exactly what we’re being asked to do.” 

Growing up, Esther was by far my favorite Bible story. I did not realize going in that Becoming Brave was written with Esther as the backbone, and I was thrilled to get to revisit and re-examine this personally formative story. Dr. McNeil added so much nuance and context to the narrative that I am even more moved by it now. Part of me attributes my bent towards justice work to Esther’s presence as a staple in my childhood. 

I’m so glad I read this book. I came away feeling both stretched and encouraged.