In the fleet of the Staten Island Ferry in New York City, one boat was named for a woman. Built in 1937, the Mary Murray was retired in 1979.
In 1776, Mary Murray invited a British General to ”a tea” at her New York City mansion. Her actions helped the Continental Army escape north in Manhattan, allowing them to join General George Washington in the safe zone of Harlem Heights.
Mrs. Murray saved the Revolution. The British would have decimated five thousand American troops, winning the war.
Other heroic women include Molly Pitcher, who assisted American troops during the War for Independence; Sojourner Truth, who was a conductor on the Underground Railroad; Marie Curie, who died after her discovery of radiation; Eleanor Roosevelt; and Amelia Earhart.
The Bible also tells us about brave women in the Old Testament, such as Rahab, Deborah, and Ruth.
We read about strong women in the New Testament in the cause of Christ: Mary, a young woman (possibly sixteen), whose faith provides us with hope; Mary and Martha, two sisters who provided food and shelter for Jesus.
Many women followed Jesus, providing food for Him (Luke 8:1-2). Lydia, a wealthy saleswoman, was intrigued by Paul’s message, becoming the first European Christian. She started a church in her home (Acts 16:14-15, 40).
Another woman who did a most outstanding act for Jesus is Mary, called Magdalene. She was a prostitute. Jesus had cast out seven demons from her (Luke 8:2).
She heard that Jesus was at Simon the leper’s house and went to demonstrate her love and appreciation for what He did. It was a costly show of gratitude.
Jesus spoke highly of Mary, saying, “She has done what she could” (Mark 14:8). We, too, can sacrificially give out of gratitude for forgiveness of sins. Give your best!
Jesus not only complimented Mary, He also lifted her far above those in that room: “And truly I say to you, wherever the gospel is preached in the whole world, that also which this woman has done shall be spoken of in memory of her” (Mark 14:9). WOW!
The whole world knows of her kindness and love. It is found in Matthew, Mark and John. Her sacrifice is a great lesson for all who claim love for Jesus. Do you really love and appreciate Jesus? What would Jesus say about you?