Sports Spectrum

Women athletes have always faced challenges when pursuing athletic goals. Many challenges have been brought on by a lack of opportunity, by clear opposition, and by an ignorance of their abilities. As a child, I was initially discouraged from pursuing my athletic dreams because of comparison to my male counterparts and because of appearances. Fortunately, things were beginning to change, and eventually women’s sports were encouraged and the opportunities became limitless.

Women during the time of Jesus faced some negative attitudes as well. Women were viewed as lesser citizens and often treated with contempt and disrespect. How uncomfortable and shocking it must have been for the men in Jesus’ day, then, when He lifted women from the agony of degradation and servitude to the joy of fellowship with Him.

This is clearly demonstrated by the act of love He showed to the woman at the well. Being a Samaritan was enough to make her despised by the Jews, but being a woman further diminished her worth. Praise God that our loving Savior shared with her the spiritual water that would forever quench her thirst! He led her to the one true God—regardless of the barriers presented by society.

We must strive to do the same with people in our sphere of influence. Are you willing to come out of your comfort zone and make a difference in someone’s life—especially someone society does not consider valuable?