Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31
I once had a young lady speak to me, rather un-respectfully, accusing me of not having respect for women. When she said this I was hurt knowing how much I had already done for her, without asking anything in return. I realize now, that the statement wasn’t against me as much as it was about her circumstances. All I remember saying to her was, “Tell me in just one way that I have shown to you that I don’t respect women.” She was silent, as she did not have an answer.
The church body needs to show respect in everyway to all members. We show honor to Christian women, who show themselves to be Christian. The only way to know that about a woman is to observe her in accordance with the Word of God. I believe that a virtuous woman needs to be honored. I believe that the qualities of a woman requires men to fully try and understand them. (1 Peter 3:7) Believe it or not, this has been practiced from the outset of the church.
When the feast was made to all the guest at the first Thanksgiving, only four women and girls old enough to assist them made all the food. These women were not slaves, but accepted the request placed on them to prepare the food. I have looked at the possible food served which included, fish of varying types, foul, venison, veggies galore and more. For three days the food was cooked and served. In fact, when the great multitude of Indians showed up, the fear was that all their stores would be used up. To all the pilgrims relief, the Indians also brought five deer.
We are not told exactly if the men helped in the cooking, some might have. But, I like to think, based on my own observation as pastor, that women did the majority of the work. I am blessed to presently pastor, as well as the churches I have pastored in the past, that our women prepare abundantly. Sometimes, I watch as our ladies serve dishes, they have worked hard to prepare, or even their husbands also working to make sure all the food is ready. No matter the event, there is always enough and more. This past weekend, we held our annual Thanksgiving meal. Oh, what a spread. As I look back on it, the ladies prepared most, but beside them was their husbands, especially at clean-up.
In many ways the tradition of the first thanksgiving continues. While we have guests and friends over to enjoy the feast and fellowship, never forget the love of God and the heart to serve others. Whether it be men or women doing the work, remember that we do all for the glory of God.
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