For if a woman will not veil herself, then she should cut off her hair; but if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut off or to be shaved, she should wear a veil. For a man ought not to have his head veiled, since he is the image and reflection of God; but woman is the reflection of man. Indeed, man was not made from woman, but woman from man. Neither was man created for the sake of woman, but woman for the sake of man. For this reason a woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. (1Corinthians 11: 6-10)

Paul is consistent in his concern for impediments to spreading the gospel. Circumcision would have been a significant impediment to overcome. The dietary and other restrictions of the Mosaic Code had become distractions more than helpful distinctions.

Just as observance of these religious rules could impede the gathering of new believers, I perceive that Paul decided gratuitous disregard for social convention could complicate acceptance of the fundamental message.

It matters of faith and leadership of the faithful there is neither male nor female. Paul affirms the place of women in public prayer, in teaching, and in prophecy. But he wants to avoid disputes over head-covering. Along the way, he planted seeds for future disputes.

I am sympathetic to Paul's disdain for petty disputes. I am inclined to ignore them. But experience is beginning to teach me that Paul and I may be wrong in this choice. Disputes over small things can sometimes lead to fuller engagement with the profound.

For this to happen disdain must be replaced by respect, listening, and patience. Both the petty and the profound can be paths to a deeper relationship with God and one another, if we will approach our differences with authentic and actionable love.