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For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NRSV
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. Romans 8:14 NRSV
When asked to write a devotion reflecting on people who have influenced our faith, my thoughts immediately turned to some of the women of the Bible who have been particularly noteworthy. Women such as:
- Deborah, influential Judge whose wisdom and faith inspired many people of her country. Due to her influence, the people of Israel enjoyed peace for 40 years.
- Hannah, mother of Samuel, who gave her son to the Lord and was the last of the Judges of Israel.
- Esther, Queen of Israel who saved her people from destruction.
- Mary, mother of Jesus.
- Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist, who announced the coming of Jesus.
- Mary Magdalene, devoted follower of Jesus, to whom Jesus first appeared following his resurrection.
These are just a few out of possibly a hundred or so women in the Bible who had a significant influence on our faith through the ages.
Bringing that closer to home, I couldn’t help but think of the woman who has had a singular impact on my life and ministry: my wife Libby. Before seminary I had a career in broadcasting, first in college as a radio DJ and following college as a television news and sports anchor. My dad, who was a Presbyterian pastor, once asked me if I had ever considered the ministry. I said, “No way, Dad. You don’t ever need to ask that again!”
Well, I guess the Holy Spirit has an unusual sense of humor, because that Spirit started working on me to the point where I felt called to attend seminary and give ministry a try. After about a year and a half in classroom I began missing the action and excitement of the television newsroom, and almost withdrew, but Libby said, “I think you’re here for a reason and need to stay until you graduate.” I’ve always respected her great wisdom, and so I stayed and accepted a call to a church after graduation.
During that first pastorate following several unpleasant encounters with the chair of the nominating committee that called me, I decided perhaps life as a pastor was not for me. I auditioned at two television stations and was immediately offered jobs at both to do what I had been doing prior to the ministry. Once again Libby said, “Honey, you’ve only been a pastor for less than 2 years and perhaps you should receive counseling from some older and more mature pastors in the presbytery.” I did, and their consensus was that I hadn’t given ministry much of a chance, and since I would probably move on to a larger church rather soon, I should try the pastorate a little longer.
Within less than 2 years, I received a call to a more sizable church with a very positive and growing congregation. My call was finally confirmed in that place, and I never looked back. Later I moved on to two more congregations and retired following 37 years of fulfilling and rewarding ministry.
I have been very grateful for Libby, the wonderful woman in my life who has repeatedly been a spiritual influence. I will always believe the Holy Spirit had a good bit to do with her becoming my wife and primary source of encouragement. Thanks be to God.
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