Today´s reading:
OT: Exodus 37, Exodus 38
NT: Matthew 28
Ps: Psalm 34:11-22
Pr: Proverbs 9:9-10
Today´s notable verse:
5 The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you."8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.9 Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me."
Matthew 20:5-10 (NIV)
For some reason, as I read this passage today, I was struck with the thought of just how controversial - or, at least, unorthodox - it must have been for Christ to give the honor of his first appearance after His resurrection, not to mention, the honor of announcing His resurrection, to women. Such a stark contrast to other cultures or religions, in Christianity women are held to be equal in worth, value, and merit to men. Women have an equal place and calling in the work of the body of Christ. Now, we can debate the nature of leadership and Spiritual appointments - and that debate is a valid one - but even thse few verses demonstrate just how radical Christianity was (and continues to be) compared to contemporary culture and opinion.
9 Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still;
teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.
10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.Proverbs 9:9-10 (NIV)
Just a thought reminding me of yesterday's notes on Proverbs, that humility, rather than pride, is the root of the wise receiving instruction and the righteous receiving learning to their benefit.
The One Year Bible Blog notes:
Comments from you & Question of the Day - How are you participating in Jesus' Great Commission today in your life? Are you in some way helping make disciples? Are you in some way helping to baptize? Are you teaching people to obey Jesus' commands?
I have known since middle school that I have a calling to missions. God has not yet released me to full-time mission work, but I have had the opportunity to participate in several short-term mission projects. Lord willing, I will be going to Mexico this summer for the fourth time (I have also been to Canada and England, but have always had a heart for central/South America - especially Mexico). I think my calling is less as an evangelist, and more as a teacher. I love teaching children, and would (I think) enjoy teaching and sending out local pastors to start or shepherd churches in their own country. I can't wait to see what God has in store for me when he releases me from the temporary position into which He has led me.