The scripture for this Sunday is Exodus 1:1-2:10.
The Hebrews had been in Egypt for some time. Joseph, his brothers, and all who knew them had died. A new king came to power in Egypt who did not know Joseph and he feared the Israelites. Pharaoh forced the Hebrews into work gangs and enslaved them. That wasn’t enough. So, he commanded two Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, to murder any Hebrew baby boys born.
The two women resisted this evil law because they respected the LORD. Shiphrah and Puah are the first people in Exodus to stand up to tyranny. Because of them, the people of Israel grew in number despite the threat of genocide. Shiphrah and Puah paved the way for Moses.
Two midwives working within a dangerous situation were given the spirit of courage from the LORD to fight against evil. Their legacy is felt throughout Exodus and beyond which is to love the LORD God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Despite the perceived cost of their disobedience of an evil law thousands of years ago, the LORD used these two humble women to help save an entire nation.
Friends in Christ, believe this Good News!