Thoughts on women...

When I hear this phrase, my mind goes immediately to the Mel Gibson film 'What Women Want' (because, y'know, films...). For those of you unaware of the premise, Mel Gibson plays a chauvinistic business executive who, after getting electrocuted in the bath, is able to 'hear' what women are thinking. Much hilarity and eventual introspective naval gazing occurs as he navigates the implications of hearing what women really think. His initial reaction is to work out how he can manipulate this ability to his own end, reflective of his original inclination to objectify women. Eventually however, listening to the innermost thoughts of women leads to better relationships with his daughter, colleagues and potential love interests. Of course we would probably do well not to read TOO much into this film. It makes some pretty unhelpful comments about how when a man is so attuned to a woman's thoughts and desires that he must be gay for example. Does it play into and reinforc...

Speaking with a friend this week I am reminded of the value of sisterhood in Christ. We talked about Jesus. We talked about his interactions with women. We lifted our spirits together by reminding one another of His goodness.  Jesus was unfailingly kind and approachable with women and in fact all people from oppressed groups. He was completely counter-culture in his approach. He protected women by elevating their status to that of men by reminding them of their humanity - "Who will cast the first stone?". He didn't shy away from difficult conversations - the woman at the well got more than she bargained for that day and though he quietly admonished her and helped her to see her sin, she went away refreshed, repentant and joyful! Full of a desire to tell others, one of the first evangelists you might say. He didn't need to leave specific instructions on how to treat women because He lived it. The more often I read Jesus, the more I fall in love with Him. I just need to...