Women of Worth

 Women of Worth

Look closely at the women listed in Matthew’s first chapter - the lineage of Christ. What do we find? An impeccable pedigree? A flawless family? A royal ancestry?  Not in this narrative. Instead we are greeted by: a barren and unloved sister wife; a betrayed and abandoned twice-widowed revenge-seeker; a sexually sinful woman; a military wife turned widow with infant loss; a displaced and childless widow. These rhythmic lines which begin Matthew’s gospel remind us it’s not the past or the present that brings meaning to our stories but His presence. 

God bestowed value and significance on women when He used these obscure and imperfect females to bring about the promised birth of His son who would bring the hope of salvation to all mankind. This was the beginning of the reversal of Eden’s curse when man and woman doubted God and made sinful steps away from Him.  In a bold, unprecedented, and unsuspecting move God Almighty moved towards sinful man, reached down to touch earth, and inserted His only Son into a woman’s womb.  Of all the ways He could have done this, His thoughtful choice bestowed such dignity on women through this gracious act. 

The plan for Jesus to come as our Messiah was set into motion long before the Garden of Eden. And when it was time for the curtain to open - for act 1 to begin, for the director to yell “Action!” - the story of Jesus’ coming became inextricably linked with a woman.  In ancient societies where women were disregarded, treated poorly, and often revered just slightly above animals, God used a young but willing woman to nurture and care for His only Son. This part of the Christmas story highlights God's esteem of the worthiness of women and showcases His “Father’s heart” for the descendants of Eve.   

God loves women. He has given us the incredible task of carrying the human race within our bodies.  Since Adam and Eve, each person that has ever lived has been carried within a woman’s body. God has given us the privilege of being life givers - whether through natural birth or care-taking for those around us - we get to give life! 

The greatest news that has ever been told can never be repeated without mention of the importance of this respectable young woman, Mary. The greatest gift that has ever been given can never be revealed without pointing to the present protected within Mary’s womb.

Matthew’s opening lineage leads us to the manger and the next step in God’s plan to restore His relationship with us. The inclusion of Elizabeth and Anna in the Christmas story are further instances of God elevating the status of women in their culture. These two women are beautiful examples of lives lived in full service to God as a response to His incomprehensible love for men & women alike.  May the same be said of us today - we who are female image bearers of God - may our response to the favor of God and the roles He has given us be to serve Him all our days with diligence & delight.