As we celebrate Women’s History Month there are many events that bring recognition to some trailblazing famous women that have helped build our nation and shape progress. It is a wonderful time to celebrate these events and the women that have made a difference. But as I reflect on these accomplishments, I am also drawn to the everyday events that may seem simple and ordinary that also deserve recognition. The woman that gives of her time freely volunteering in a homeless shelter, the mom who pours into her children every day, the Sunday school teacher that teaches biblical values through bible stories and song, and all the women who simply support each other through everyday challenges and take time to celebrate the milestone successes along the way. We are all worthy of celebration every month of the year!
God has a habit of picking ordinary people for some very important tasks. One story can be found briefly in Luke 2:36-38.
There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Anna was a faithful witness. She literally could not stop talking about Jesus. A witness that shared her faith to everyone she came in contact with. A woman that most likely impacted the lives of so many with her faithful words. Anna demonstrates the importance of spending time alone with God, being faithful in prayer, and sharing the gospel with others. I don’t know about you, but I think that is worth celebrating. An ordinary woman chosen by God to receive the gift of prophecy and to see Jesus as an infant. Only mentioned briefly in the bible, but her impact so mighty and in ways we may not completely know and understand.
Anna is not unlike many of us as we spend time with God during our Yada time and as we listen to what he has to say to us personally. We share the good news of Jesus with those we encounter during ordinary events – in the grocery line, at the office, coffee with a friend, or a brief encounter with a stranger. We are all making a difference one encounter at a time.
So, during Women’s History Month, I encourage you to stop and celebrate all the ordinary and mighty women that are on mission, sharing the good news of Jesus!
Christine Brevik, Executive Director
