蜜芽传媒

Good morning.

On this day in 1893, New Zealand became the first country to grant national voting rights to all women. Until then, half the adult population was excluded from having a voice in such an important decision-making process. New Zealand became a trailblazer, and its bold move opened the way for many other nations to follow.

Moments like this remind us of the power of inclusion. To be recognised, valued, and given equal standing is not only a matter of justice - it also reflects God鈥檚 own heart. We see this clearly on the day of Pentecost. As the Holy Spirit was poured out, Peter stood before the crowd and quoted the prophet Joel: 鈥淚n the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams鈥�.

This was a radical declaration. In God鈥檚 kingdom, age, gender, or status don鈥檛 limit the Spirit鈥檚 work. Sons and daughters, young and old - all are invited to participate in God鈥檚 mission. The outpouring of the Spirit was not for a select few, but for all of God鈥檚 people.

Just as the suffragists of New Zealand opened the door for women鈥檚 voices to be heard in society, Pentecost reminds us that God has already opened the door wide in His kingdom. No one is overlooked. Every voice matters. Every life has purpose.

Thank You, Lord, that you love both your daughters and your sons, and that your call and care extend to women and men, young and old alike. Help us to honour the gifts of others and to live in the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Amen.