This expression is from an advertisement from the Seventies for a cigarette that was specifically marketed to ladies. The clear message was, "Forget the second class status. You're just like men now . . . even better." Ironically, it was prophetic. Lung cancer statistics reflect the fact that yes; women are catching up in the area of lung disease, stress diseases, and suicide.

What got me thinking along these lines was a political cartoon that ran in the Eugene Register Guard newspaper Friday. It was a spoof of one of the most horrific photos of Iraqi prisoners being abused by American prison guards. In the photo, the female MP is smiling as she humiliates a naked Iraqi prisoner. With thumbs up, she struck a defiant pose that seemed to say, "Look at me now!"

I did . . .we did . . . the world did.

In my lifetime a huge societal shift has taken place. Sexual morals and long held traditions of chivalry have all but disappeared. In their place we have a confused, disenchanted, frustrated and disappointed generation of women who are beginning to ask, "Is this what we wanted? Is this the 'liberated' existence so many fought to attain?"

Before you get the impression that today's message is going to be some Neanderthal, walk on your knuckles diatribe against women, be aware that I firmly believe that a truly qualified woman should be able to do any job a man can do. I believe she should be compensated for that job on the same scale as her male counterparts. The so-called glass ceiling is a wrong that must be made right.

I also, however, believe that God made men and women fundamentally different. The Lord expects us to honor His gender creations. I also believe that women are disciples of Jesus with the same rights and responsibilities to be conformed into His image. On this special day, let's honor the women in our lives, not because of their comparisons with men, but with their special, exalted role in God's creation.

Pastor Jim
May 9, 2004