Read today’s texts first: Genesis 20-22; Luke 8
A good “woman” can keep her man healthy and happy
by saying at the right time: “Whoa-man!”
by saying at the right time: “Whoa-man!”
The obvious stories in these chapters (ie. Abe’s ultimate test of obedience) have always drawn my attention away from some of the subplots. One of those underlying themes is the influence women have in the lives of two dominant men: Abraham and Jesus. Sarai, true to the meaning of her name, had her spats with Abe. But even though God changed her name from Sarai to Sarah, from “quarrelsome” to “princess,” you don’t see a clear shift in her character. I used to think Abe gave in because Sarah was a looker, even at 90 (at least Abimilech thought so!). But I noticed that God often took her side even when, what seemed to be a jealous and mean-spirited request, Sarah asked Abe to “cast out” Hagar and her son Ishmael (21:12). It seemed like Sarah, at key times, actually spoke for God and helped balance Abe’s one-sided perspective.
Jesus also gave extraordinary attention to the women in His life. Luke 8 mentions Mary Magdalene, His mother Mary, and the woman who interrupted Him on the way to heal Jairus’s daughter. In each case, and throughout His ministry, Jesus always honoured women, even when the culture and the training He grew up with devalued their status.
My own wife has brought balance to my life and ministry. There have been many times I’ve questioned her requests, quite prepared to dismiss them as unreasonable and overemotional. You know what I’m talking about guys – typical women stuff! But right now, I’m reflecting on how grateful I am to God for giving me such an insightful, thoughtful woman. Recently I advised a seasoned pastor’s wife to make sure her husband, in his recently added ministry assignment, doesn’t become a workaholic. This is exactly what Jan has done for me. I know I could easily become consumed with the ministry if it wasn’t for her perspective. She keeps me feeling healthy and enjoying life by telling me to “Whoa-man!”
“Lord, thank you for finding me a wife and other peer mentors who balance my life. Help me to stay attentive to them and honour them. If I do, I just may last longer and finish stronger.”
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