SPIRITUAL BATTLE

Mariam was taking part in spiritual battle alongside her opposite gender counterparts who viewed her role with scepticism. 

The Rabbi told her , "You are fighting in the same army in different battalions."

The Letter of St Paul to the Ephesians Chapter 6 verses 13 to 17 tells us, "Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and after having done everything, to stand. 

Stand firm then! Buckle the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. Strap up your feet in readiness with the gospel of peace. 

Above all, take up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. 

And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."

POVERTY

 

Mariam experienced ostracism due to her poverty. 

Rabbi Jesus told her, "This happened because you are the same way I was on earth - poor."

Those who experience marginalization due to lack of funds do so in the company of the King of kings and Lord of lords.

CALL TO MINISTRY

 

Mariam was tasked with a new service which proved a challenge.

She asked the Rabbi, "How am I supposed to carry out ministry with this dysfunctional set-up?"

The Rabbi answered, "It's because of the dysfunctional set-up that you received this ministry."

Sometimes individuals are called to work in the vineyard to clear out the weeds and overgrowing vines. The task may not be pretty but it is essential. Working in God's Service is not for the faint-hearted. Always be brave.