I reconnected with a good friend by the name of Tena Daye, she came in to my life during a very difficult period. Always took the time out to breathe life in to me, even supported this writing gift I didn't realize I had. So, thank you Tena. Your influence and words have had an immeasurable impact on the trajectory of my life. This is not in anyway to discredit others who have done the same for me. Her encouragement just came at a time prior to my complete meltdown, and as I was being rebuilt all she said to me came to remembrance.
Today I want to speak on a subject that is often discussed amongst His children. Many discussions, and many different opinions are expressed. I'd like to highlight two simple passages to provide some insight. Subject: Women in ministry. This is a topic that resonates with me, because most of my spiritual guidance has come from women. Even today I spend more time with women then men. Not in a romantic sense, in an edifying and platonic manner. I praise God daily for these women in my life, they are a mighty force. Their love, support, and unconditional love reflect Him daily. In my heart I want to write all of your names, I fear this would be the longest blog ever. So.....you should know who you are, and know that I love you.
As I stated earlier, in no way would I equate myself with Jesus the Christ. I do have a similar experience to one expressed in scripture concerning Him. The first scripture is Luke 8:1-3 (NKJV); "Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and bringing glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities --Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance." I've searched the scriptures endlessly, and noticed this. Never have I come across any scripture other than this and another about someone ministering to Jesus. Notice the passage mentions the twelve disciples, but not in the context of them ministering to Jesus. This most important role was carried out by the women around Him. Not perfect women by any means, but broken women who had received Him for who He was.
Before we get ahead of ourselves, let's define the word minister. I'm sure many of you know, yet for those who don't the word means "to serve". Interesting, yet a confirmation of all Jesus taught us while He was here on earth. Notice it's to serve, not subservient. In no way should we view women in this light. They chose to serve out of love, simple and plain. They provided for His daily needs, provided a listening ear, and a warm heart. The simple things that men often overlook. I'm sure you men reading can think of some women right now who do that for you. I am surrounded by them, sometimes I think they want to see me fulfill my potential more than I do. They serve my spirit man in ways I can't begin to describe. Their honest, available, and dependable. Wish I could say the same for all my homeboys.
The most important piece to Jesus' ministry is arguably His resurrection. To whom was the responsibility laid to spread that message. Oh, I'm not giving you the answer. This is one of those dig in to your bible moments. At the cross, their were women and one man. Just take some time to study those Gospels, and you will see the role women played in Jesus' life and ministry. Once you study the rest of the New Testament you will see they've always been in the forefront. There shouldn't be a discussion as to a woman's ability to minister. There should be rejoicing that they fearlessly stand up for our faith. Rejoice I say, rejoice.
I praise the Lord I do attend a church where the men are active and visible. Yet I'm aware that this is not common, though it need be. Walk in to most churches and you'll see some men sprinkled in, yet you'll see the women out in full force. AMEN? They walk in faith, evangelize in all they do, recognize His presence, and cast out that which is not of Him. Here's the key....THEY DO IT WITH BOLDNESS. You will not notice them compromising His Word to appeal to others. Women are MIGHTY in this Kingdom, MIGHTY.
The next scripture comes from Mark 15:40-41 (NKJV); "There were also women looking on from afar, among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, the Less and of Joses, and Salome, who also followed Him and ministered to Him when He was in Galilee, and many other women who came up with Him to Jerusalem." We know the disciples fled when Jesus was arrested. Scripture tells us in Luke 10:1 that there were 70 disciples in addition to the twelve. None of them are mentioned in this text. My bible scholars have their bibles open and recognize that this passage follows Jesus' death on the cross. At the time of His greatest need, when He was performing His most important physical ministry....women ministered to Him.
To all my women, young women, and girls......YOU GO GIRL!!!! You go spread this Gospel, you let Him use you, you stand boldly for Him. All that mumbo jumbo about women shouldn't be doing this and that is from someone who needs to take a class in hermeneutics. His Spirit is in you, be empowered! You are the daughter of God. Let the whole world know it. Be blessed, be beautiful, be a force. Read about Deborah and Jael in Judges 4. Can't send a man to do a woman's job. Don't get me out of context, this isn't a free pass to "exhaling" on men. LOL. It is encouragement to walk in the way and calling He's ordained for you. LOVE Y'ALL!!!
BE BLESSED BE FAITHFUL