But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let the male children live. Exodus 1:17, ESV

 

On Sunday, National Women's Day, South Africans commemorated the twenty thousand women who marched in protest against unfair pass laws that curtailed their freedom of movement, opposing government oppression, and highlighting the ongoing struggles women still face.

 

Over the years, despite all odds, women have shown great courage in dire situations, persevering through domestic violence and hardship, gender inequality and unfair treatment in the workplace. Some are single mothers fending for themselves and their children, but all are victims of injustice. Most have remained unsung heroes.

 

Today we reflect on two midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, in Ancient Egypt who courageously ignored the king’s order, enabling the Hebrew people to continue growing in number, and to thrive. The Hebrew midwives had been ordered by the Egyptian king to kill all the Hebrew baby boys at birth – a cruel command given to women who’d prioritised the life and well-being of these babies – born out of fear of the growing Hebrew population.

 

Fear, often the motivating force behind flight or fight, is more likely to inspire a response of humility and integrity in the God-fearing person – one that would probably make them more conscious of their dependence on God and tremble at the enormity of what was required of them. Doesn’t there come a time for each of us, when, faced with a situation that is wrong, to cry out to God, call it as it is and make a choice?

 

These admirable women did fear God and were dedicated to their vocation even before the Ten Commandments were given. Unwilling to turn against everything good and true in their calling, which brought life, they did not obey the king of Egypt but revered God instead, upholding his principles, honouring him and their fellow man. Humbly and courageously the midwives served, not looking for help or recognition from anyone, but they slept peacefully at night, knowing that they’d honoured God as they served unfalteringly.

 

We don’t need to be recognised; God sees those who hold his values in their hearts.

 

Jesus said, “So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’ ” (Luke 17:10)

 

Where do you stand? How will you serve?

 

The words of Frances Ridley Havergal’s 1877 hymn help us test the faithfulness of our own hearts:

“Who is on the Lord’s side? Who will serve the King?

Who will be His helpers other lives to bring?

Who will leave the world’s side? Who will face the foe?

Who is on the Lord’s side? Who for Him will go?”

 

Prayer: Father God, help me to serve you reverently, with humility, integrity, courage and faith. Amen