Difficult Passages

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 “A woman must receive instruction silently and under complete control.  I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man. She must be quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. Further, Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and transgressed. But she will be saved through motherhood, provided women persevere in faith and love and holiness, with self-control. 1Timothy 2:11-15

Ok, apparently, Paul was not married! The culture of the time did try to suppress women; I’m not going to deny it. Perhaps suppress isn’t the right word, but women were given strict boundaries. I, for one, believe God gave me this inquisitive mind. My voice, way of teaching is a gift. I try not to single people out because of gender, creed or race. Adam joined Eve in the whole “let’s eat the fruit thing.” Paul’s writings are hard to understand at times. I try to put it in perspective of time, yet it is scripture so what am I supposed to learn? First, Paul’s opinion of women. As a former Pharisee, I would not expect anything less. Cornel of truth. Motherhood is great. Even those who can’t or don’t have children but help with other children, I hope they find joy in the love of a little one. My daughter is a great Aunt to her niece and nephew. The other day, I said to four-year-old Gus, “Your favorite is coming over.” His response, without hesitation, was “Jamie!” Women, and all people, will be saved through faith, love, holiness, and self-control. As you enjoy your day be reminded that it’s not your gender, creed or race that God holds against you, it’s not living the unique creation you are on the path…

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