Nine Ladies Dancing: The Gift of Women in the New Covenant

“Her wisest ladies answered her, Yes, she answered herself.” – Judges 5:29 (NKJV)

On the ninth day of Christmas,
my true love gave to me
Nine ladies dancing,
Eight maids a-milking,
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five golden rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

This day marks a celebration of the significant role that women play in the story of the new covenant, a sharp contrast to their position in the old covenant.

In the book of Judges, we read the story of Deborah, a prophetess and judge, who led Israel to victory over the Canaanites. In Judges 5:29, we see a celebration of women’s wisdom and participation in God’s plan, as the “wisest ladies” answer and join in the song of victory. This passage highlights that women were not passive bystanders in God's redemptive work, but active participants, working alongside men to fulfill His purposes.

Under the old covenant, women were often sidelined, limited in roles, and regarded as insignificant in many cultural and religious contexts. But in the new covenant brought by Jesus Christ, women are empowered and given prominent roles in the unfolding of God's plan of salvation.

Consider Mary, the mother of Jesus, who courageously said "yes" to God’s calling, and another Mary, who was the first to witness Jesus’ resurrection and be given the commission to tell others. These women, and many others, played pivotal roles in the new covenant. They demonstrate that in Christ, there is no longer male or female, but all are called to serve and carry out God's will (Galatians 3:28).

The nine ladies dancing symbolize this new freedom and joy for women in the Kingdom of God. It’s a picture of women who, in the power of the Holy Spirit, are fully alive in their calling, dancing with joy and participating in the work of the gospel. This is the good news of the new covenant: it is not limited by gender, race, or background, but is a call to all who will respond to God’s love and grace.

Over to You:

• How are you embracing your role in God’s Kingdom, regardless of gender or background?
• Whether man or woman, young or old, God has called you to be part of His redemptive story. Step forward with joy and participate fully in His work.

Further Scripture References:

• Galatians 3:28; Luke 1:38; John 20:16-18; Acts 2:17-18

Prayer:
Father, thank You for the role that women play in Your redemptive story. Thank You for the women who have answered Your call with faith and courage. Help me, regardless of my gender, to step into the purpose You have for my life, to be an active participant in Your Kingdom, and to embrace the joy of serving You. May my life reflect the freedom and empowerment found in Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.