Everyone loves a good story. For years, I have been collecting various storybooks that help me with my ministry. Just recently, a former parishioner sent me a book called “More Hidden Women of the Gospels,” by Kathy Coffey, and it is a treasure!
I won’t spoil the book, but will tell you that it has been an exciting read. Kathy shares how Jesus used stories, and using the Ignatian method of imaginative prayer, she introduces women who could have been connected to people in familiar stories from the Gospels, Parables, and the Acts of the Apostles. “These reflections/stories provide a way to dig deeper into the scriptures and extend their impact and meaning to others who were then impacted by encounters with Jesus, and into our own lives now.” (Megan McKenna, Author of Not Counting Women and Children)
Knowing Jesus as we do, we understand that He would never exclude half of humanity from His stories. I was reminded how he used images women would be familiar with: leaven in dough, patches on cloth, lamps on stands, drawing water. These came from a woman’s ‘image bank’. Jesus lifted up women’s experiences of challenges, joys, relationships, and the drudgery of daily life to small glimpses of the Kingdom of God. As the author states, “Jesus was more interested in Inner Transformation than priesthood, prophecy, or politics.” (p. xvi)
I was excited to read and reflect on stories like “Heal me too,” about Mrs. Bartimaeus; “My Crazy Dad,” the story of the Daughter of Zacchaeus; and “The Woman Who Caught the Crumbs.” Telling and listening to these stories puts a new perspective on a familiar scene. I have come to realize that we really need to listen to and respect others’ stories. We can only come to know someone if we begin to understand their story.
In sharing some of these stories with a women’s group recently, I could see them light up at the self-reflection time; it was their realm of experience in today’s day and age. Listening to and reflecting on these stories from the past, and seeing them played out in their own experiences, was very powerful. During this week, take time to listen carefully to another’s story and appreciate where they are coming from. It might make all the difference in the world to them and you. Take a second look at some of the Gospel stories and parables, using your imagination, place yourself in the scene, and see where it leads you. Hopefully, deeper into your spiritual life and soul. Shalom.
Till next week,
Sister Theresita
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