Now I praise you because you remember me in everything and hold firmly to the traditions, just as I delivered them to you. But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ.
Every man who has something on his head while praying or prophesying disgraces his head. But every woman who has her head uncovered while praying or prophesying disgraces her head, for she is one and the same as the woman whose head is shaved. 1 Corinthians 11:2-5
Some churches still follow the tradition of having women wear scarves or head coverings while praying. What was Paul getting at? He was confronting signs of a rebellious spirit in those who would disregard the tradition revealing a deeper issue with God’s authority and creative design. There were those then, and many today, who seek to blur the lines of masculinity and femininity and disregard God-given roles in relationships… to their own detriment. I don’t have space and time this morning to unpack “headship” and equality and inter-dependence between men and women (particularly, husbands and wives). Suffice it to say- we need each other and can build our lives seeing each other as a genuine gift from God.
I recommend reading pastor John MacArthur’s brief synopsis: www.gty.org/library/bibleqnas-library/QA0219/head-coverings-for-women pastor MacArthur reminds us- “Dress is largely cultural and, unless what a person wears is immodest or sexually suggestive, it has no moral or spiritual significance.”
How is my prayer life? Am I coming to God regularly and in a way that pleases Him and invites honest dialogue?
God, as this day begins, I am in an earthly paradise here in Maui. Oh, your creation nurtures my spirit. My prayer life has been regular in this season, but I have not sought as earnestly to hear Your voice. I am slowing down, purifying myself (to the degree that’s possible), and opening my heart fully before You. Move within my mind, heart, soul and strength. My head is uncovered!
