Our tradition appreciates the value of formalized prayer. If prayer is left entirely subjective and random - with time, the average person would allow theirdavening experience to lie fallow. Hence, Judaism has a standard system of prayer that possesses a basic recurring text that expresses itself in three prayer times: Shacharis (morning), Mincha (midday), and Maariv (evening).

However, in a fascinating exchange between Mordechai and Esther we reveal an alternative form of prayer that we are not used to employing. In chapter 4, Mordechai tells Esther that she needs to go to King Achashveirosh immediately to rescind the evil decree upon the Jews. Esther responds that entry into the King without a prior invite is punishable with death. She needs to wait, however long it may be, for a personal invite from the King. Mordechai disagrees with her approach and essentially tells her that waiting would be an utter mistake.

16th century scholar and commentary on the Megilah, Rav Eliezer Ashkenazi in his Lekach Yosef makes an inspirational point. Mordechai was suggesting that Esther burst into Achashveirosh's office without an appointment not only out of a fear that waiting would perhaps be too late but rather out of an intrinsic value. If Esther is called to meet with him then her complaint is just another item or agenda on the list of somebody visiting the King. But breaking the rules and standing boldly before Achashveirosh, lets him know that this is an issue of urgency. That desperation could not be experienced by Achashveirosh if Esther waits patiently.

Mordechai's suggestion could be applied to our prayer experience. Sometimes the right thing to arrange our needs in the patient and trusted pattern of Shacharis, Mincha, and Maariv. But there are unique times when we need to convey to G-d the urgency of our needs or the needs of others and when that time comes we should not wait but rather we should burst into the court of the King of all Kings and speak our need.