God's perspective on women

I'm getting ready to read a book that I hope will be both formational as well as foundational for me: Through His Eyes: God's Perspective on Women in the Bible by Covenant Seminary Professor Jerram Barrs.

As the mother of four girls (not to mention a woman myself), I have a seriously vested interest here. I cut my theological teeth in a conservative but overly imperative-focused church. There were a lot of important truths I learned (but also a lot of legalism from which I spent years breaking free).

I now belong to the Presbyterian Church in America. The approach to Scripture in this denomination is thoroughly conservative, but I've discovered a lot of freedom I never had before, which has been both relieving and puzzling to me. The old teachings I grew up with referencing women weren't necessarily wrong; I just don't remember anything being preached on how the Lord really sees women.

In a similar manner and in a more secular sense, I grew up and live in an age in which women can be and do almost anything they want (and if they can't, they can sue somebody for the right). Most of the mothers I knew growing up (my own included) entered the full-time workforce during my formative years, but when I became a mother myself, I knew I wanted to stay home.

It's tricky sometimes to find your way if you are a woman who considers herself both conservative and free. How does one go about teaching girls to be "keepers at home" while at the same time igniting their sense of calling and passion in life, both of which could include the home . . . or something else? What does God really have to say about the place and role of women in our 21st century world?

It's high time I found out. I'll be hosting bi-weekly discussions on Jerram's book on my personal blog, so consider yourself invited. Men or women, we can learn together.