Mary Slessor, an intrepid pioneer, left Scotland to work tirelessly in Southern Nigeria. A single woman, she found a way to bring change to tribes where twins were considered a curse. She taught by example, continuing to take in unwanted children. She continued her work among the tribes, teaching God's word and compassion for families, especially women. She was instrumental in ending the practice of the poison bean, which was used to find an accused person guilty or innocent. If the person lived, it meant that he was innocent. Women found a greater sense of dignity. She taught the value of hard work and helped men establish trade with larger towns, bringing prosperity to rural areas. She established the Hope Wardell Trade Institute. Mary Slesser was frequently found sitting between angry chiefs who had long-standing disputes. During these sessions, she knitted and prayed to keep herself calm. For her successful work, Britain made her Counsel and gave her a significant role within the legal system. She continued her activity among Africans until her death on January 13th, 1915, at age 66. Her body was transported to Creek Town, where the uneducated former mill worker was awarded the equivalent of a state funeral. Today she is remembered in Africa and her native Scotland for the hope she brought to hundreds of lives.
Mary Slessor's life's work was bound up in her constant prayer, one that would be good for all of us to assume at the beginning of this year: "Lord, the task is impossible for me, but not for thee. Lead the way, and I will follow."
Watch the free 30-minute movie from Revelation Media, free until January 31st.
https://www.revelationmedia.com/TLMaryS/RM16469/
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