Lately, I have heard, and read a lot about only women being present at the foot of the cross, and all the men deserting Christ.

Satan likes to divide. And he finds easy prey in the battle of the sexes. Oh, how we love to puff ourselves up, by seizing any opportunity to prove women are better and stronger than men, more loyal. I grew up in a culture that groomed, and promoted this thinking and attitude, and embraced it as my own. It fed my desire to be #1, the Queen. But Jesus stepped into my life and spoke the truth. Ever since He broke that chain, whenever I see a hint of it, my blood pressure rises.

Was it mainly women present at the crucifixion of Christ?

Let’s look at what the Scriptures tell us. John was present, because Christ commissions him to care for Mary, Jesus’ mother, in John 19:26-27. Joseph and Nicodemus must have been close to know that Christ had died, and ask to claim His body.

We need to take into consideration the cultural times. Women were insignificant as far as politics, and leadership were concerned. They could not vote, be witnesses, or hold positions of influence. As a result, these women posed a minor threat. We see a snapshot of this in the disciple’s response to the women’s report of Jesus’ resurrection in Luke 24:11.

Men, however, created a larger danger. They could influence, gain power, and threaten the status quo. For them to be present was far more dangerous.

In Luke 23:49 it says, “But all those who knew him, including the women”, were watching nearby. The gospels don’t always give us every detail, and each gospel focuses on different aspects of Christ’s time on earth. I love this! God created each of us uniquely for a purpose.

So, was it only women at the cross? No. Was it mostly women? Possibly.

Does this mean women are better than men, in any way? No. neither are they any less. We are all equal in the Lord’s eyes. However, news alert! Women and men are different, created with different strength, abilities and unique gifts. Women are more nurturing, emotional, and better at multi-tasking. Men are more single-minded, logical and, supposedly, have a nothing box! That is a topic for another time!

Do I still fall into this trap? Of course. I am still a clay pot that easily cracks. But I fight against it, because I hate the lie! I spent too many years in that prison. A prison that almost led to the demise of my family and the death of my soul.

Men are far from perfect. But so are we.

Does it drive me crazy that my husband can’t multi-task? You betcha! But I wouldn’t trade that for his ability to step back from his emotions and think clearly to make a rational decision. Do I get annoyed at his less adventurous nature? Absolutely! But I wouldn’t trade it for his stable nature, which this flighty woman so desperately needs.

God is sovereign and has a plan for each of us. He created men and women the way they are for a purpose, and it is good.

So, remember this the next time the lie creeps into your heart that women are better, more intelligent, more loyal or loving. We are not. We are all sinful human beings wanting our own glory. And unless we know Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, we can never break that chain.

O Lord, I pray that my sisters and I would be ever mindful of the slippery lies of Satan, and turn to you and your Word for truth. Let us encourage each other on in finding our joy, purpose and freedom in You and You alone. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Be well!

Patricia