Thankful For Those Who’ve Gone Before Me

This morning, I got the opportunity to sit at the feet of a woman who has fought for my right to be in ministry.

She was told that even though she had a seminary degree, her gender prevented her from getting an internship.

She shared how being a mom kept her from being paid for her ministry work.

For decades she has fought to follow Jesus into ministry. And in the process smashed barriers so that other women - like myself - could follow.

As a woman in ministry, who is also a young mom, I'm thankful for the women who have fought for equality and given me the opportunity to follow Jesus into ministry. I am thankful for the women who have sacrificed so that I can be a woman leader in an Evangelical organization.

And while sometimes the struggles ahead feel overwhelming, I want to honor those who've taught me that I can follow God where ever he leads me.

So for all the women who were the first in their fields, thank you for your strength.

Thank you for all the woman who continued to push forward, even when men told you no.

Thank you for all the women who have fought to change legislation to protect women.

Thank you for all the women who have raised children to believe in equality.

Thank you for all the women who have gone before me and paved the way, so that my fellow sisters and I can follow our passions!

While I'm intimately aware of how far we have to go to reach equality, I am thankful for the women who have led the way.

Happy International Women's Day!