Introduction
Lent is an opportunity to undertake an intentional spiritual journey. It allows us 40 days to pause and ask searching questions about our faith. So often our Christian faith is taught in a way that implies that the heroes of our faith are men. We learn about the great men of the Bible, we follow the examples of the male disciples, and often believe that women existed in the background of Jesus’ life. But if we pay attention to the Bible, we will discover that there are many stories of heroic women. Lent 2024 is an invitation to examine some of the stories of women in the Bible and ask how they speak to us in our lives today. During Lent we will look at the Biblical women named Mary (Mariam in Aramaic). Their stories are ones of audacious courage in a culture where women were diminished in favor of men. This series invites us to listen to these women, and then to pray for and support the women of our community. It is hoped that you will take courage from these women by contemplating their lives, meditating on your attitude towards women, and supporting a change of attitude towards women in our culture and the world. Let’s resolutely endeavor to change our culture with God’s love! “If we are to better the future we must disturb the present.” – Catherine Booth
The Context
Jesus lived in a patriarchal culture where women had no direct access to property rights and inheritance. There were times of the month where they were secluded for being ritually impure and were generally regarded as incapable of understanding the things of God without a man present to teach them.
Women were second-class citizens who were mostly treated as property that belonged first to their father, and then once married, to their husband. Often married at the age of 12 or 13, their value in society was just above that of a slave, in a society where men had complete authority over their daughters and/or wives. Women had no civil or religious rights. It was rare for women to own property, they had no formal schooling, and possibly only basic religious training. They could not hold public office, give testimony, or move around freely in public. A woman’s life was her home. There are always exceptions, but on the whole, women lived a separate life from men. Interaction with men who were not part of her family was forbidden. Her main role was to take care of her husband, the household, and the children. If she was a widow, she depended on the charity of her son, who inherited her husband’s property. If she had no son, she was obliged to marry her husband’s brother in order to retain her place and property in the family.
Sadly, our society finds many similarities with the world of Jesus. While there are many women that play an active role in public and economic spheres, we still have a long way to go. In many instances there is no equality in the workplace, as women still earn far less than their male counterparts in the same positions, and the ‘glass ceiling’ of male leadership is a common experience for women. While gender roles are slowly changing, women are commonly treated as submissive nurturers, expected to look after the family and household. Many men refuse to take responsibility for their children, leaving poverty-stricken women to care for fatherless children. Many women do not report abuse because of cultural reasons or personal shame. The struggle for equal respect for women is far from over. Christian women - and Christian men - need to actively challenge our sexism and the patriarchal systems that inform it.
Women were second-class citizens who were mostly treated as property that belonged first to their father, and then once married, to their husband. Often married at the age of 12 or 13, their value in society was just above that of a slave, in a society where men had complete authority over their daughters and/or wives. Women had no civil or religious rights. It was rare for women to own property, they had no formal schooling, and possibly only basic religious training. They could not hold public office, give testimony, or move around freely in public. A woman’s life was her home. There are always exceptions, but on the whole, women lived a separate life from men. Interaction with men who were not part of her family was forbidden. Her main role was to take care of her husband, the household, and the children. If she was a widow, she depended on the charity of her son, who inherited her husband’s property. If she had no son, she was obliged to marry her husband’s brother in order to retain her place and property in the family.
Sadly, our society finds many similarities with the world of Jesus. While there are many women that play an active role in public and economic spheres, we still have a long way to go. In many instances there is no equality in the workplace, as women still earn far less than their male counterparts in the same positions, and the ‘glass ceiling’ of male leadership is a common experience for women. While gender roles are slowly changing, women are commonly treated as submissive nurturers, expected to look after the family and household. Many men refuse to take responsibility for their children, leaving poverty-stricken women to care for fatherless children. Many women do not report abuse because of cultural reasons or personal shame. The struggle for equal respect for women is far from over. Christian women - and Christian men - need to actively challenge our sexism and the patriarchal systems that inform it.
United Women in Faith
United Women in Faith is the official organization for women within the United Methodist Church. UWF offers all Methodist women opportunities for spiritual growth, leadership development, transformative education and service and advocacy.
To get involved in United Women in Faith, contact
Judi DeZeeuw at (605) 690-5764.
To get involved in United Women in Faith, contact
Judi DeZeeuw at (605) 690-5764.
Week 1: Mary, The Sister of Moses
Readings: Exodus 2:1-10, Exodus 15:21-22, Numbers 26:59, 1 Chronicles 6:3
The first Mary of Scripture is the sister of Moses. The Greek name Mary is the equivalent of the Hebrew Miriam. Exodus 2:1-10 tells how an unnamed sister of Moses saves his life at the Nile River. She courageously confronts the daughter of the powerful ruler of Egypt who had ordered the death of all Jewish baby boys and finds a way to save her brother’s life. She was resourceful and organized for her mother to be Moses’ wet-nurse and care-giver. The survival of Moses was because of the courage and ingenuity of his sister.
While unnamed in Exodus Chapter 2, two genealogies list Moses, Aaron, and Miriam as the sole children of Amram (Numbers 26:59 & 1 Chronicles 6:3). Miriam/Mary first appears by name in the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 15:20-21). Called “the prophet Miriam, Aaron’s sister,” she leads Hebrew women in singing, dancing, and playing drums. Miriam is the first woman to be called a prophet in the Bible, and as such she pioneers space for the other Marys who followed her. The song of Miriam is one of the oldest poetic verses in the Old Testament. Her song has been preserved as an important part of the ritual of celebration.
While much is made of Moses leading the people out of Egypt, it is to be remembered that Miriam was also one of the leaders. She was the prophet for her people during their escape from slavery and wanderings in the wilderness.
It is a sad comment on how history is recorded that men have been remembered for their leadership, when there were equally courageous women leaders. We salute the example of Miriam, a brave prophet of God.
The first Mary of Scripture is the sister of Moses. The Greek name Mary is the equivalent of the Hebrew Miriam. Exodus 2:1-10 tells how an unnamed sister of Moses saves his life at the Nile River. She courageously confronts the daughter of the powerful ruler of Egypt who had ordered the death of all Jewish baby boys and finds a way to save her brother’s life. She was resourceful and organized for her mother to be Moses’ wet-nurse and care-giver. The survival of Moses was because of the courage and ingenuity of his sister.
While unnamed in Exodus Chapter 2, two genealogies list Moses, Aaron, and Miriam as the sole children of Amram (Numbers 26:59 & 1 Chronicles 6:3). Miriam/Mary first appears by name in the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 15:20-21). Called “the prophet Miriam, Aaron’s sister,” she leads Hebrew women in singing, dancing, and playing drums. Miriam is the first woman to be called a prophet in the Bible, and as such she pioneers space for the other Marys who followed her. The song of Miriam is one of the oldest poetic verses in the Old Testament. Her song has been preserved as an important part of the ritual of celebration.
While much is made of Moses leading the people out of Egypt, it is to be remembered that Miriam was also one of the leaders. She was the prophet for her people during their escape from slavery and wanderings in the wilderness.
It is a sad comment on how history is recorded that men have been remembered for their leadership, when there were equally courageous women leaders. We salute the example of Miriam, a brave prophet of God.
PrayerSovereign God, you call us to serve as leaders in challenging situations where the rights of people are trampled upon. Help us to break down barriers of gender, race, sexual orientation, age, class and caste that all may have life in fullness. Amen.
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Discussion QuestionName significant women leaders of your community, church, and country. Share their stories and say what stands out and what is revolutionary.
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Week 2: Mary of Bethany
Readings: Luke 10:28-42. John 11:1-3, John 12:1-3
Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, was also called Mary of Bethany (a region in Judea). Their home was a place of refuge for Jesus, and they had become good friends with him. Martha showed her love by preparing food, as expected by the culture of the day. Mary, in contrast, broke the cultural stereotypes by invading the men’s space. She went in and sat at Jesus’ feet, hungry for spiritual knowledge. This behavior was culturally unacceptable as she was engaging with men – and more specifically talking with a man that was not her husband. To compound the problem, she ministered to Jesus by using precious ointment and lovingly wiping his feet with her hair. Women never ate in men’s company or spent time talking to them. Instead, they had to be veiled and only seen when serving them. Mostly they stayed in the background. However, in this case Mary had come to know Jesus well: she knew Jesus did not discriminate against, or stereotype women, otherwise she would never have dared to join the men.
Many men fear that women will take away their power and authority in society. They feel that they must defend their territory against women. They also believe that women inherently do not have the knowledge or intelligence to speak on certain topics - especially when these topics are seen as male dominated spheres of society like politics, sports, and religion! Even in the church to this day some congregants do not like female pastors to lead a church: some expect women to organize the catering and the children’s ministry (i.e.: to be in the background).
Mary trusted Jesus and so followed her heart and who she believed God called her to be. She stepped into the place that God called her. Note: this does not mean that women can’t work in kitchens! There is nothing wrong with Martha wanting to serve Jesus in the kitchen - if that is where she was called by God. However, if Martha was doing it because of cultural expectations, she was limiting God’s vision for her life. Our lives should be aligned to our calling. Only a life “given away” to Christ and dedicated to him is worth living. Mary defied all stereotypes, courageously giving her all, to put Jesus first. Our place is where God calls us to be, go there!
Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, was also called Mary of Bethany (a region in Judea). Their home was a place of refuge for Jesus, and they had become good friends with him. Martha showed her love by preparing food, as expected by the culture of the day. Mary, in contrast, broke the cultural stereotypes by invading the men’s space. She went in and sat at Jesus’ feet, hungry for spiritual knowledge. This behavior was culturally unacceptable as she was engaging with men – and more specifically talking with a man that was not her husband. To compound the problem, she ministered to Jesus by using precious ointment and lovingly wiping his feet with her hair. Women never ate in men’s company or spent time talking to them. Instead, they had to be veiled and only seen when serving them. Mostly they stayed in the background. However, in this case Mary had come to know Jesus well: she knew Jesus did not discriminate against, or stereotype women, otherwise she would never have dared to join the men.
Many men fear that women will take away their power and authority in society. They feel that they must defend their territory against women. They also believe that women inherently do not have the knowledge or intelligence to speak on certain topics - especially when these topics are seen as male dominated spheres of society like politics, sports, and religion! Even in the church to this day some congregants do not like female pastors to lead a church: some expect women to organize the catering and the children’s ministry (i.e.: to be in the background).
Mary trusted Jesus and so followed her heart and who she believed God called her to be. She stepped into the place that God called her. Note: this does not mean that women can’t work in kitchens! There is nothing wrong with Martha wanting to serve Jesus in the kitchen - if that is where she was called by God. However, if Martha was doing it because of cultural expectations, she was limiting God’s vision for her life. Our lives should be aligned to our calling. Only a life “given away” to Christ and dedicated to him is worth living. Mary defied all stereotypes, courageously giving her all, to put Jesus first. Our place is where God calls us to be, go there!
PrayerSovereign God, you call us to serve as leaders in challenging situations where the rights of people are trampled upon. Help us to break down barriers of gender, race, sexual orientation, age, class and caste that all may have life in fullness. Amen.
The Brookings Domestic Abuse Shelter supports those who have suffered domestic violence and sexual assault in our society. This organization seeks to advocate for the use of tolerance, support, and reason in the face of conflict and against the use of violence, to empower those who have been victimized by violence, and to promote a less violent society by modeling, educating, and promoting alternatives to violence.
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Discussion QuestionsAs a woman: Are you caught in the “kitchen” of not following Gods calling because you fear discrimination, or are you living out your dreams in the place God prepared for you? Explain.
As a man: Do we show the same acceptance as Jesus when women bravely enter traditionally male spaces - such sports presenters, building contractors, and church leaders? Which female cultural stereotype is most prevalent in your culture today? Is there an action you can take to change this? |
Week 3: Mary Magdalene
Readings: Matthew 27:55-61, Matthew 28:1-4, Mark 15:40-47, Mark 16, John 20:1-18, John 19:24-27
Mary Magdalene is nearly always distinguished from other women named Mary by adding "the Magdalene" to her name. This has been interpreted to mean "the woman from Magdala", a town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Luke 8:2 says that she was called “Magdalene". Mary Magdalene had a special relationship with Jesus. She was present at the tomb, she was the first person Jesus appeared to after his resurrection, and the first to tell the Good News of that miracle. Within the four Gospels she is named at least 12 times, which is more than most of the apostles. Carla Ricci suggests that, "The place she [Mary Magdalene] occupied in the list cannot be considered fortuitous," because over and over Mary Magdalene's name is placed at the head of specifically named women, indicating her importance among the followers of Jesus.2 In fact she was seen as an apostle in her own right and thus represents the women who followed Jesus. Luke tells us that these women had unheard of freedom and mobility whilst following Jesus. Women normally did not leave their homes except to travel to feasts, visit family or attend to daily chores and if they did it would only be for a short time.
What prompted Mary to step out of this subservient culture and become such a devoted disciple to Jesus? Luke says that she received a special blessing of healing and forgiveness. We are not sure what the “seven demons that possessed her” means3, but we know that she was afflicted and that Jesus healed her. Released, she became the person God intended her to be. She accepted his forgiveness and was set free, no longer letting her past actions or others’ labels influence her. Just as God chose Mary Magdalene, despite her past – so God knows our past, and yet chooses to use us. Like Mary, he knows what we are capable of and what we can become.
Not only do women often struggle with pasts that holds them back, but they also live with judgements and labels. This is a label based not of what they’ve done, but simply because of what they are – a woman! Many women are judged by the way they dress, rather than by their character. If a man has many girlfriends he is a stud, if a woman has many boyfriends she is a “slut”. More disturbing is the fact that a woman’s values are judged in sexual abuse cases by pejorative comments such as “she must have asked for it.”
As we observe the life of Mary Magdalene, we see that Jesus never used such discriminating labels or demeaning words. Jesus demonstrates how to empower a woman to be who God created her to be. It is only Jesus’ opinion that really matters. Once we are forgiven and released, we can blossom into the leaders God intended women to be. Mary Magdalene realized that her love for God meant more than who she was perceived to be. Although she knew firsthand about sin, God’s mercy and forgiveness changed her life completely. She was a new person!
Mary Magdalene is nearly always distinguished from other women named Mary by adding "the Magdalene" to her name. This has been interpreted to mean "the woman from Magdala", a town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Luke 8:2 says that she was called “Magdalene". Mary Magdalene had a special relationship with Jesus. She was present at the tomb, she was the first person Jesus appeared to after his resurrection, and the first to tell the Good News of that miracle. Within the four Gospels she is named at least 12 times, which is more than most of the apostles. Carla Ricci suggests that, "The place she [Mary Magdalene] occupied in the list cannot be considered fortuitous," because over and over Mary Magdalene's name is placed at the head of specifically named women, indicating her importance among the followers of Jesus.2 In fact she was seen as an apostle in her own right and thus represents the women who followed Jesus. Luke tells us that these women had unheard of freedom and mobility whilst following Jesus. Women normally did not leave their homes except to travel to feasts, visit family or attend to daily chores and if they did it would only be for a short time.
What prompted Mary to step out of this subservient culture and become such a devoted disciple to Jesus? Luke says that she received a special blessing of healing and forgiveness. We are not sure what the “seven demons that possessed her” means3, but we know that she was afflicted and that Jesus healed her. Released, she became the person God intended her to be. She accepted his forgiveness and was set free, no longer letting her past actions or others’ labels influence her. Just as God chose Mary Magdalene, despite her past – so God knows our past, and yet chooses to use us. Like Mary, he knows what we are capable of and what we can become.
Not only do women often struggle with pasts that holds them back, but they also live with judgements and labels. This is a label based not of what they’ve done, but simply because of what they are – a woman! Many women are judged by the way they dress, rather than by their character. If a man has many girlfriends he is a stud, if a woman has many boyfriends she is a “slut”. More disturbing is the fact that a woman’s values are judged in sexual abuse cases by pejorative comments such as “she must have asked for it.”
As we observe the life of Mary Magdalene, we see that Jesus never used such discriminating labels or demeaning words. Jesus demonstrates how to empower a woman to be who God created her to be. It is only Jesus’ opinion that really matters. Once we are forgiven and released, we can blossom into the leaders God intended women to be. Mary Magdalene realized that her love for God meant more than who she was perceived to be. Although she knew firsthand about sin, God’s mercy and forgiveness changed her life completely. She was a new person!
PrayerPlease pray for our church, our country, and the other countries in the world where women are still suffering.
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Discussion QuestionWhat labels and double standards do you think are most prevalent in our society today?
Which label in the Wordle really hurts you? Explain. Are you struggling to get over your past? Have you been discriminated against? Turn to the person next to you and share as much as you are comfortable with. Pray for each other to let go of the past and hurtful labels. |
Week 3: The Mother of James and Joses
Readings: Mark 15:40-41, Matthew 27:55-56, Mark 15:47, Matthew 27:61, Mark 16:1-8
Mary is identified as the mother of James and Joseph: James being the English form of the Hebew Jacob, and Joses being the Greek form of Joseph. Matthew initially refers to her as the mother of James and Joses but then simply calls her “the other Mary” (Matthew 27:61). Mary is mentioned seven times in the Gospels. It was not unusual for women in the ancient world to be identified primarily by their relationship with a male relative, usually a husband or father, but in this case by her sons. This double identification helpfully distinguishes Mary the mother of James and & Joses from the other women named “Mary” in the Gospels.
A number of women followed Jesus, supporting him financially, and even standing at the foot of the cross at His crucifixion. Mary, the Mother of James and Joses, was one of these women (see Mark 15:40). She was with Jesus on His final trip to Jerusalem and was probably one of the “many women” who witnessed the Crucifixion from “afar off” (Matthew 27:56). On Easter Sunday, she was one of the women who witnessed Jesus’ empty tomb and the angel’s announcement of the resurrection. The risen Jesus met her and Mary Magdalene and spoke to the two women before anyone else.
Although women were not allowed to lead or fulfil pivotal roles in any sphere of society, this woman was different: she used her money to support the ministry of Jesus and the disciples. It was uncommon for women to have control of finances in those times. Mary, along with women such as Joanna, the wife of Chuza – Herod’s steward – and Susanna, played an important role in Christian history and traditions with their various contributions (Luke 8:1-3).
Mary is identified as the mother of James and Joseph: James being the English form of the Hebew Jacob, and Joses being the Greek form of Joseph. Matthew initially refers to her as the mother of James and Joses but then simply calls her “the other Mary” (Matthew 27:61). Mary is mentioned seven times in the Gospels. It was not unusual for women in the ancient world to be identified primarily by their relationship with a male relative, usually a husband or father, but in this case by her sons. This double identification helpfully distinguishes Mary the mother of James and & Joses from the other women named “Mary” in the Gospels.
A number of women followed Jesus, supporting him financially, and even standing at the foot of the cross at His crucifixion. Mary, the Mother of James and Joses, was one of these women (see Mark 15:40). She was with Jesus on His final trip to Jerusalem and was probably one of the “many women” who witnessed the Crucifixion from “afar off” (Matthew 27:56). On Easter Sunday, she was one of the women who witnessed Jesus’ empty tomb and the angel’s announcement of the resurrection. The risen Jesus met her and Mary Magdalene and spoke to the two women before anyone else.
Although women were not allowed to lead or fulfil pivotal roles in any sphere of society, this woman was different: she used her money to support the ministry of Jesus and the disciples. It was uncommon for women to have control of finances in those times. Mary, along with women such as Joanna, the wife of Chuza – Herod’s steward – and Susanna, played an important role in Christian history and traditions with their various contributions (Luke 8:1-3).
PrayerGive thanks for those women who have sacrificially supported Christian ministry.
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Discussion QuestionList the women who are modern day heroes of the Christian story.
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Week 4: Mary of Clopas
Reading: John 19:25
This Mary is the most obscure. She is only mentioned once in the Gospel of John and only as the wife of Clopas. Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother and His mother’s sister, Mary of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. Since there were three Marys at the cross, John needed to name the third Mary by her husband, Clopas.
Everything else we know comes from church tradition or inference. According to early church tradition, Cleopas was Joseph’s younger brother — yes, the brother of Mary’s husband. While there appears to be some dispute among scholars as to the exact relationship between these two Marys, there is little doubt that they were related in some way. There are also some who suggest that this Mary is also the Mary who is the mother of James and Joses – and there are many other scholars who disagree with this conclusion.
Let us look beyond this unhelpful speculation to the one thing that is beyond dispute: here is a brave woman. The inclusion in the Gospel story of a female witness to the death of Jesus emphasizes the deep respect that the early Christians had for these faithful women of their day. She was willing to publicly identify herself with Jesus, a convicted criminal. Most of Jesus’ disciples were unable to take a stand at the foot of the cross – but Mary of Clopas stood her ground. Here is a heroic woman, who risked her life and reputation for her belief in Jesus.
This Mary is the most obscure. She is only mentioned once in the Gospel of John and only as the wife of Clopas. Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother and His mother’s sister, Mary of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. Since there were three Marys at the cross, John needed to name the third Mary by her husband, Clopas.
Everything else we know comes from church tradition or inference. According to early church tradition, Cleopas was Joseph’s younger brother — yes, the brother of Mary’s husband. While there appears to be some dispute among scholars as to the exact relationship between these two Marys, there is little doubt that they were related in some way. There are also some who suggest that this Mary is also the Mary who is the mother of James and Joses – and there are many other scholars who disagree with this conclusion.
Let us look beyond this unhelpful speculation to the one thing that is beyond dispute: here is a brave woman. The inclusion in the Gospel story of a female witness to the death of Jesus emphasizes the deep respect that the early Christians had for these faithful women of their day. She was willing to publicly identify herself with Jesus, a convicted criminal. Most of Jesus’ disciples were unable to take a stand at the foot of the cross – but Mary of Clopas stood her ground. Here is a heroic woman, who risked her life and reputation for her belief in Jesus.
PrayerPray for women who have to dig deep to stand with those they love – that they may receive courage and compassion for life.
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Discussion QuestionThe loyalty of this Mary is remarkable. Share the story of a loyal woman who inspires you.
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Week 4: The Mother of John Mark
Reading: Acts 12:12-14
The Acts of the Apostles tells of “Mary, the mother of John, whose surname was Mark” (Acts 12:12). Here is the mother of John Mark, who was one of the missionary companions to Paul and author of the Gospel of Mark. It is possible that this Mary was a woman of independent means who lived in a Jerusalem home that included a courtyard, a wall with a gate, and at least one servant (see Acts 12:12–14). The disciples have gathered at her home when the news of Peter’s arrest becomes public, and it is to her home that Peter flees after escaping from prison.
Mary must have known the dangers associated with opening her home for a gathering of the followers of Jesus as she did in Acts 12. She then sheltered Peter – and escaped prisoner. Here is a woman of courage, who lived fearlessly as a disciple of Christ. Luke, who wrote the Book of Acts, captures an account of a women of faith who contributed to our Christian faith through personal faith, courage, and hospitable service.
The Acts of the Apostles tells of “Mary, the mother of John, whose surname was Mark” (Acts 12:12). Here is the mother of John Mark, who was one of the missionary companions to Paul and author of the Gospel of Mark. It is possible that this Mary was a woman of independent means who lived in a Jerusalem home that included a courtyard, a wall with a gate, and at least one servant (see Acts 12:12–14). The disciples have gathered at her home when the news of Peter’s arrest becomes public, and it is to her home that Peter flees after escaping from prison.
Mary must have known the dangers associated with opening her home for a gathering of the followers of Jesus as she did in Acts 12. She then sheltered Peter – and escaped prisoner. Here is a woman of courage, who lived fearlessly as a disciple of Christ. Luke, who wrote the Book of Acts, captures an account of a women of faith who contributed to our Christian faith through personal faith, courage, and hospitable service.
PrayerGod of Generations, we celebrate the lives of the women who fought the good fight and stood up for the Gospel and the truth of Scripture, yesterday and today. Strengthen our voice of proclamation. In your mercy, hear our prayer.
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Discussion QuestionAll of us have blossomed because of the love and care of a woman. Share your appreciation for one woman in your life.
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Week 5: Mary of Rome
Reading: Romans 16:6
In Romans 16:1–16, St Paul recommends, greets, or commends twenty-eight individuals. Mary of Rome is one of these twenty-eight. She is mentioned alongside Priscilla, who along with her husband Aquila were commended as “fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their necks for my life” (Romans 16:3–4). In the letter, Mary is commended by Paul because she “worked very hard for you” (Romans 16:6). The exact way in which Mary “worked very hard” is not clear, but the way Paul singled her out for a greeting suggests that Mary of Rome was a spiritual caretaker in the city with her peers like Priscilla, Tryphena, Tryphosa, and her associate from Greece, Phebe (see Romans 16:1, 3, 12). All others listed are commended for faithfulness in serving Jesus, and in the light of this we can assume that Mary too is a faithful, upstanding, and fruitful member of the Church in Rome.
Again in this new Jesus-following Church, we see a freedom for women to be seen to be seen in public service. I would therefore suggest that Jesus’ encouragement of women as active and open disciples not only survived the initial decades of the Christian movement in Palestine but also spread with the expanding first-century Church.
In Romans 16:1–16, St Paul recommends, greets, or commends twenty-eight individuals. Mary of Rome is one of these twenty-eight. She is mentioned alongside Priscilla, who along with her husband Aquila were commended as “fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their necks for my life” (Romans 16:3–4). In the letter, Mary is commended by Paul because she “worked very hard for you” (Romans 16:6). The exact way in which Mary “worked very hard” is not clear, but the way Paul singled her out for a greeting suggests that Mary of Rome was a spiritual caretaker in the city with her peers like Priscilla, Tryphena, Tryphosa, and her associate from Greece, Phebe (see Romans 16:1, 3, 12). All others listed are commended for faithfulness in serving Jesus, and in the light of this we can assume that Mary too is a faithful, upstanding, and fruitful member of the Church in Rome.
Again in this new Jesus-following Church, we see a freedom for women to be seen to be seen in public service. I would therefore suggest that Jesus’ encouragement of women as active and open disciples not only survived the initial decades of the Christian movement in Palestine but also spread with the expanding first-century Church.
PrayerOh, Lord, on behalf of all hard-working women everywhere, I ask for four things: strength, courage, patience, and a forgiving heart. Amen.
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Discussion QuestionMary’s epitaph reads “she worked very hard.” What words would you want engraved on your tombstone? Explain why you would want these words.
“If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then, you are an excellent leader.” — Dolly Parton |
Week 5: Mary, Mother of Jesus
Reading: John 19:25
Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is the most famous of the Marys in the Bible. But she is more than “the Mother of God” (Theotokos). Despite a difficult life, Mary lived her life with joy. Mary was a betrothed woman awaiting her wedding in a small rural town. Then, she became pregnant and faced the possibility of ridicule and censure of her community, and rejection from her betrothed. Mary and Joseph made a hurried journey to Bethlehem, where she gave birth under very difficult circumstances. After his birth she was so poor that all she could afford at her purification ceremony were two doves; her family fled the persecution of King Herod and lived as homeless exiles in Egypt; she returned to Palestine to a life of rural poverty; and she is presumed to have lost her husband before Jesus began his public ministry. Even more loving faithfulness was demanded of Mary when she stood at the foot of the cross watching her son be executed for treason.
Mary reminds us that regardless of circumstances a person can still discover the “Good News” of faith in God. She embodies a faith-filled woman who brought courage and fortitude to the difficulties of her life.
Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is the most famous of the Marys in the Bible. But she is more than “the Mother of God” (Theotokos). Despite a difficult life, Mary lived her life with joy. Mary was a betrothed woman awaiting her wedding in a small rural town. Then, she became pregnant and faced the possibility of ridicule and censure of her community, and rejection from her betrothed. Mary and Joseph made a hurried journey to Bethlehem, where she gave birth under very difficult circumstances. After his birth she was so poor that all she could afford at her purification ceremony were two doves; her family fled the persecution of King Herod and lived as homeless exiles in Egypt; she returned to Palestine to a life of rural poverty; and she is presumed to have lost her husband before Jesus began his public ministry. Even more loving faithfulness was demanded of Mary when she stood at the foot of the cross watching her son be executed for treason.
Mary reminds us that regardless of circumstances a person can still discover the “Good News” of faith in God. She embodies a faith-filled woman who brought courage and fortitude to the difficulties of her life.
PrayerI am bursting with God-news; I’m dancing the song of my Savior God. God took one good look at me, and look what happened— I’m the most fortunate person on earth! What God has done for me will never be forgotten, the God whose very name is holy, set apart from all others. His mercy flows in wave after wave over me. He bares his arm and shows his strength, scattered the bluffing braggarts. He knocks tyrants off their high horses, pulls victims out of the mud. The starving poor sit down to a banquet; the callous rich left out in the cold. He embraced his chosen child, ME; he remembers and piles on the mercies, piles them high. It’s exactly what he promised, beginning with Abraham and right up to now.
-The Prayer of Mary (Luke 1:46-55, The Message) |
Discussion QuestionDo you trust God to carry you through the difficult moments of your life? When it feels like the whole world is against you can you choose to live with courage and faith?
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