by Kelly Pelton (written 22 Feb 2020)

It was a culture-bound necessity
for women to be subdued, not flaunting
their freedom which triggered insecurity
in men who considered smart females daunting.*

The spread of the gospel was paramount.
Paul urged conformity when possible
to societal expectations; count
your station in life as missional.

Stay where you are in order to proclaim
the good news of Jesus in a dark world.
Don't make it about you; we preach His fame,
the news of God's redemptive plan unfurled.

Neither gender dominates; be gently
poised to explain your hope in our Savior.
Be modest in character, intently
voicing your faith with salty-sweet flavor.

*Juvenal, Satires 6:434-456