“But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. . . . So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir.” -Galatians 4: 5, 7
In Chapter 7 (“What Does a Woman Want?”) of Who is This Man?, John Ortberg states that during the time of Jesus Judaism actually was unusual in teaching that women as well as men fully bear the image of God. Extreme rabbinical statements, however, showed that not everyone bought into the program: “Better that Torah should be burned than taught to a woman.” Jesus’ inclusivity- part of what drew and continues to draw people to Him- challenged that perspective and marked His relationships with women.
Pastor Ortberg notes that Jesus offered women a new community. As Luke tells us in Luke 8: 1-3, Jesus was supported by the service and means of faithful women, a shocking arrangement in the ancient world. Furthermore, in the ancient world adoption existed to create a male heir who could be pater familias– head of the household. Jesus, in contrast, extended what earthly fathers gave only to sons to women as well.
Abandoned by colleagues and management following our ministry downsizing or vocation less, our employment orphans status pales in comparison to our adoption as sons and daughters of God.
Today’s question: How does focusing on your identity as a child of God help you put your job identity in perspective? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “In God’s good hands”
