Combining biblical scholarship, midrash, and an imaginative, fictional approach, Mary Ellen Ashcroft takes a new look at seven biblical women: Mary Magdalene, Maria, Mary the Mother of Jesus, Joanna, The Samaritan Woman, and Martha. In this book Ashcroft views these women in light of Christ's resurrection. What might they have thought, felt, and done, once they knew that Jesus had been raised? How did they influence-even help build-the early Christian movement? Ashcroft maintains that these women have become "lost" in history; that their true identities have been obscured. By seeing them afresh, we can gain insights for our own discipleship. Ashcroft says, "Mentors and foremothers of the faith, have you been lost, or have we? You have sat, watching these many years, waiting to welcome us. Perhaps it is in finding you that we find our place in the faith." Spirited Women includes spiritual exercises for meditation, reflection, prayer, and discussion.
I found Spirited Women to be an encouraging and uplifting resource. I've imagined all of these women in much the same situations during the formation of the new testament church. And have come to similar conclusions regarding the individual character of each woman represented, their relationship to each other, and their subsequent "disappearance" from the scene of church history. There is no doubt that Jesus left His indelible mark of love and freedom on each of these women and it is a challenge to the leadership of today's church to truly follow in His footsteps.Though I might not agree with everything Ms. Ashcroft presents, the bulk of her writing on this topic will continue to challenge me and draw to a deeper walk with Jesus!
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