There are many tragedies and devastations in history, but what sets this one apart and draws us back to remembering it year after year, decade after decade, is the extraordinary sacrifice demonstrated. The critical element in the story of the Titanic is the sacrifice of the men for the women and children.
So, I have a sober question for you. It is one I have been asking myself and meditating on for several months now.
How can we as women inspire the men in our lives to sacrifice for us? Are we worthy of such sacrifice?
In the ultimate sense, of course, no, we are not worthy. We are ultimately worthy only of death and damnation. And the charge for men to give up their lives for their brides as Christ gave His for the church is not based on the merit or deserving character of the bride. It is their duty and obligation regardless. But set that aside for this question.
But how can we live, day to day, in a manner which would make worthwhile a man’s sacrifice? How can we inspire our husband, our sons, to consider it an honor, not an obligation, to lay down their lives for us?
What kind of attitudes should we cultivate and actions should we aspire to raise our character?
Let me tell you about three of my dearest friends who have taught me about this very question. They have walked with me intimately since I was a child, and while these friends are no longer living, they daily encourage and exhort me from their own lives through the pages of Scripture. They are Sarah, Ruth, and Esther.
Sarah gives every woman hope! She laughed at the prophecy of the Lord regarding bearing a child, then took matters into her own hands and created an enormous mess in her family. On two occasions Abraham failed to protect her, and yet Sarah is the one singled out in the New Testament to be praised for submitting to her husband and calling him “lord.” The Scriptures say: “For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.” (1 Peter 3:1-7) She must have ended very well despite all the faulty beginnings. Her life should encourage every woman alive.
Ruth exemplifies loyalty, bravery, creative problem solving, and a commendable work ethic...
Esther demonstrates perspective, unselfishness, respect of authority, acknowledgment of the sovereignty of God, honorable confidence, the power of prayer and fasting, and consideration of timing and jurisdiction in making an appeal. . . . .
What do we see in the lives of these friends that we can incorporate into our own lives? This principle: Maintain an eternal perspective. Do not get lost in the small facts and details of the moment. God is about a much bigger plan.
Be thankful and joyful as these attitudes demonstrate trust in God and faith in His sovereignty. Root out feminism. We are all daughters of Eve, and like Sarah, and all the rest, the seeds are there. Eschew pettiness. It is not noble.
Allow yourself to be protected. It is risky and not guaranteed, but God is in control, and His way is the only proven way.
Believe in the men in your life. Pray for them, encourage them, and see God’s work in them. Refuse the temptation to dwell on his shortcomings. You have your own. . .do you want those to be in the limelight? Of course not!
Let him lead. Watch the Lord work through His purposefully designed jurisdictions for His goals.
Look at your own life, as I am looking at mine. Consider how you can live, day to day, in a manner which inspires the men around you to consider it a noble thing, an honor and a privilege, not only a duty and obligation, to lay down their lives for you. What attitudes and actions do you need to cultivate in your daily life? How can you become a woman worthy of such sacrifice?
Above Left: Beall visits with Cathy Walsh. Above right: “One lump or two?” Bottom Right: Each women in attendance received a special copy of the ladies’ version of the Kipling masterpiece “If.”
The ladies enjoyed the fine food and services of the Chateau on there Lake, and had opportunity to delight in the babies in attendance.
Many commented on how profoundly encouraged they were to spend this time as ladies speaking of the Lord and the nobility of Christian womanhood.
The tea included some beautiful musical offerings from Mrs. Becky Morecraft, bride of the great preacher, teacher and church historian, Dr. Joseph Morecraft. Becky sang of love, loyalty and remembrance.
For some, the tea—-with so many ladies in vintage attire—-was a snapshot of what a real Edwardian tea might have looked like. Many of the ladies were wearing handmade dresses. Still many others had purchased century-old period dresses from Ebay and antique Shops.
Jubilee and Liberty stand beside Beall at the conclusion to thank the ladies for coming.