Mark 16:1-8
Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome brought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body.
The women stayed with Jesus all the way to the cross and the tomb. So we’re not surprised, it is the women who seek to serve Jesus when the men are no where to be found.
And it is to the women – not the eleven – that the angel first announces the good news of the resurrection!
“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus. The Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him.”
We are not really surprised, are we? Even today it is usually the women who seem most fervent in their love of the Lord’s cause. There are more women at worship services than men!
Men may often take the lead in public. Do most of the visible preaching. But the women are the backbone of most congregations.
And they have great influence in the home. They guide the children in their most formative years. And they encourage their husbands to be faithful also.
It is said in jest, “Behind every successful man is a woman who is surprised!”
Not true really. Rather alongside of most faithful men are persuasive women who are out front with great love and devotion to the Lord. Influencing by their example of devotion!
It is fitting that these women who come early to the empty tomb of the risen Lord should have the privilege to be first to announce this Good News!
“But go, tell his disciples…”
No, we’re not surprised. It’s the women!
God is the one who said, "It is not good for man to be alone!"
ReplyDeleteHe's known all alng that a helpmeet is a great idea!
A qualification of an elder is that he is married (has a wife.)
And yes, I agree that women are the backbone of any congregations. They serve when and where most men shy away from (infant classes, toddler classes, cleaning, etc... How many male interpreters for the deaf have you seen???) As well you will find many more serious and indepth ladies Bible studies than men's groups doing similar. In many ways they put us to shame!
However, praise God in his wisdom for giving us the helpers we need.
God and Father above, I thank You through Your Son Jesus Christ and praise You for giving me my help-meet, who encourages and stands beside me, and supports me in more ways than I am aware of.