New Year's Resolution

It's 2010, an new year, a new decade, a new beginning.

So here's the resolution: Update this blog at least once a week, possibly more.

The reading for today, 1/11/10 includes this powerful verse:
At that time Deborah, a prophetess, wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel Judges 4


As the church universal struggles with women's leadership, and sexuality issues, this verse reminds us that none of it is new! When Israel didn't listen to God and were sold into slavery, God sent a woman to Judge. To sit under a tree and listen to disputes, and apply God's judgement. Simple, and profound.

When the Lord needed a military leader, to deliver His people from slavery, Deborah delivered the summons to Barak. Much like Moses, Barak didn't want to go alone, he insisted Deborah come to the battle. Even after Deborah reminded him that if she were there too, the victory would be seen as hers, a woman's!

So, once again, the Nation Israel is delivered from slavery though the work of a woman. Moses' mother. Deborah, Ruth, even Tamar. Why fuss over gender when God marks the choice? Why fuss over age, or ability, when God's call is good enough? We don't need to worry about particulars when everything is in God's hands. When the people need guidance God sends a guide. Our response is to listen and return to the word.

The Word if God is this: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your strength. And Love your neighbor as yourself!