A Man’s Perspective on Woman Come Forth
April 23, 2008
I also was honored this weekend to share in a sacred experience of healing and deliverance at the Women Come Forth conference in Denver Colorado. As I accompanied my dear wife Sadell, the Grace singers and musicians I had no idea what was in store. It was truly humbling and gut wrenching at the same time. The speakers were knowledgeable, honest, sincere and truly empathetic to the plight of women who have suffered tragedy and trauma at the hands of men and an objectifying culture. But this weekend has left me with the impression that healing has come to those who chose to demonstrate courageous transparency.
There was a revelatory manifestation of the Holy Spirit moving in the hearts of speakers, musicians, psalmist and artisans. From the outset the atmosphere was established as a place for the attendees of the conference rather than for the speakers and producers. This event set out to lavish the love of God on hurting women in practical ways that each person could understand, receive and reciprocate.
Where unconditional love is, miracles happen: and the miracle of healing was thick as molasses. To see the men present as volunteers in complete tuxedo’s serving where needed offered a touch of class and sophistication. I watched the other men as we shed tears over the pain articulated from the stage and viewed in the in eyes of women in the arena. I was so moved that I asked to speak a simple word that God laid on my heart.
He simply said to me to say, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry for the role I’ve played in abusing women, objectifying them, and turning the other way at the demeaning images and expressions of other men.” I apologized for being desensitized by a culture which permeates agony, suffering and bondage when I could have been shielding and protecting. I apologized for men in general as well as myself. As I teared up and watched the tears flowing from the audience, I had no idea of the response that would follow. Women who had never heard a man say “I’m sorry” would make their way to offer their appreciation and gratitude.
I was blown away and deeply moved as I now see with new eyes the focus and impact men of God must have if we are going to restore women back to their rightful place in society. Someone must take a stand, will it be you?
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Sherman, can you please share a little about (even though they are subtle), ways that men or even you were demeaning or would objectify women and what specifically helped you change and how.
We all need that encouragement..
thanks,