Matthew 27:55-56 (NKJV)
“And many women who followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to Him, were there looking on from afar, among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.”
As we inch closer to Good Friday, Resurrection Sunday, and the close of Woman’s History Month, I am drawn to the women mentioned in the scripture who were at the crucifixion and the grave of Jesus. There is something about this narrative that not only intrigues me, but holds me in awe. The women were fearless, showing compassion, commitment, and love while His Disciples hid and cowered in fear.
It was the duty and responsibility of Jesus’ Disciples to be with Him, but they weren’t. They abandoned Him. These women made a bold statement by their presence. They stayed and did what had to be done.
As I contemplated this narrative, I began to think about the comparisons of those brave women and the women in our society, specifically the women of the African diaspora. They are the quintessential model for strong womanhood. There is something in their spirit that enables them to go above and beyond to achieve what seems like the impossible.
Many women of the African Diaspora had to be fearless as they took on the role of mother and father, provider and protector, nurturer and comforter. They didn’t choose these roles, the roles chose them. They are proud and committed with a spirit of compassion and the fearless fortitude of soldiers. They stand, shouldering the weight of their community in the absence of the strong nuclear family.
On this day, I salute and pay homage to the women who are like those at the cross. I salute the women who have stepped in and continue to fill the gap, especially when men are absent. I salute the women who go above and beyond tradition and hold our families and our communities together despite the challenges. Know that I love you not only for what you do, but for who you are.
Be Blessed +++
Rev. J. Loren Russell is an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx, President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial &. Strategic Consulting, and hosts “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” on Soul 1 Radio, Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM. Listen by phone” at 626-226-1448. Be sure to Friend “Matters of Faith” on Facebook and email us at mattersoffaith.mof@gmail.com. Order your copy at Book Blues.
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