Scripture:
Luke 8:1-3 (English Standard Version)
Women Accompanying Jesus
Luke 8
1Soon afterward he went on(A) through cities and villages, proclaiming and(B) bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2and also(C) some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities:(D) Mary, called Magdalene,(E) from whom seven demons had gone out, 3and(F) Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them[a] out of their means.
Footnotes:
Luke 8:3 Some manuscripts him
Cross references:
Luke 8:1 : Mark 6:6
Luke 8:1 : Luke 4:43
Luke 8:2 : Luke 23:49, 55; Matt 27:55; Mark 15:40, 41; Acts 1:14
Luke 8:2 : Luke 24:10; Matt 27:56, 61; 28:1; John 19:25; 20:1, 18
Luke 8:2 : Mark 16:9
Luke 8:3 : Luke 24:10
Reflection:
Are you eager to serve the Lord and to support the work of the gospel with your personal resources? During his three years of public ministry Jesus traveled extensively. The gospel records that a band of women accompanied Jesus and the twelve apostles. This was a diverse group of women; some were public sinners, others from rich or prominent families. We know that Mary Magdalene had lived a very troubled and tortured life. The gospel records that Jesus freed her from seven demons. Joanna, wife of the king's chief financial officer, held significant social and political standing. What brought them together and united them in a bond of friendship and common service? Certainly Jesus and his message of the kingdom of God had transformed this group of diverse personalities and temperaments. Each brought their gifts and resources to Jesus. Paul the Apostle reminds us that the Holy Spirit gives his gifts and graces to each and everyone for the common good of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:7). While God needs no one, he nonetheless, chooses to work in and through each of us for his glory. No one is unimportant or unnecessary in God's economy. The least in his kingdom find a home and a mission at Jesus' side. Do you know the joy of serving Jesus in company with others who love him?
Prayer For The Day:
Lord, set my heart on fire for you that I may give freely of the gifts, talents, and resources you give me, for your sake and for the work of the gospel.
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