An Unfair Box

At best it is unseemly
At worst, an impossibility
A woman simply does not belong
In Christian ministry

I’ve heard the refrain
In all the different strains
It’s to the point that the lie
Is hardwired in my brain

I don’t belong with men
Who call upon the Lord
I should stay at home
Be quiet and submit

Part of me was lost
When I allowed them
To tell me
Who it is that I should be

Instead of listening
For the small voice
Who said,
“My daughter, look at me.”

To be fragmented
Is not what I deserved
The unity of my person
May yet still be preserved

I am a woman
That is one half of me
The other half is just as valid
God gave them both to me

I am a minister
Of the Gospel of Peace
Though at war
With those who would

Deny me my place
At odds
With those who try to box me
Where I am not to be

There is no dilemma
I am worthy of
Both ministry
And femininity
Because that is who God made me to be

I refuse to deny either half of me