Luke: Insight.

Upon my renewed study of the book of Luke, I noticed several inspiring and influential women’s stories filled the pages. As the book of Luke opens, the first event that we encounter is Gabriel’s prediction of John’s birth to Elizabeth (who was thought to be barren) and Zechariah. Immediately following that, Gabriel predicts that Jesus will be born to Mary, a relative of Elizabeth, and also a virgin. Gabriel declares in verse 37 that, “nothing is impossible with God.” Then the two women encounter one another. Mary comes to stay with Elizabeth as they are both carrying children that were miracles of God. Verse 45 says, “She who has believed is blessed because what was spoken to her bye the Lord will be fulfilled!” The sheer faith of these two women is greatly inspiring. And for me, the faith of Elizabeth has become more pronounced in my study of Luke. She was barren, and knew that she would never conceive a child. That fact was set in stone. But when it was revealed to her that she would indeed give birth, she never once doubted for a moment. To Elizabeth, God said what he meant. His promise was irrevocable. Elizabeth truly embodies an undying faith in God’s sovereign plans.

In chapter 7:36-50, the story of a sinful woman washing Jesus’ feet is recounted. Jesus uses this woman’s humility as an opportunity to teach about the importance of forgiveness in accordance with love saying, “her many sins have been forgiven; that’s why she loved much. But the one who is forgiven little, loves little.” Next, in chapter 8:1-3, we learn of several women who have joined Jesus’ cause and began to travel with him and his disciples. Among these women were Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, and many others. Finally, another story of a faithful woman was the story of the Widow’s gift. Chapter 20:1-4 displays the giving of a gift of a mere two coins to the temple. Even though the gift was small, it was of great value and cost to the widow. Jesus goes on to say, “This poor widow has put in more than all of them. For all these people have put in gifts out of their surplus, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.”

In ancient times, women were always relegated to a lower social standing and were thought of as weak and incompetent. In fact, that attitude still sometimes remains today. It is so encouraging to read about the great faith and works of these women. They sacrificed there selfish thoughts, desires, and possessions. It is very comforting and empowering to see this prominence of women of faith.