HOST: Michael Whitworth
Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.
When we think of the followers of Jesus during His earthly ministry, our minds most likely go immediately to the twelve apostles. They are the most present and visible companions of Jesus as we read through the gospels. But it is important to remember that they were not the only faithful followers of the Lord. There were others, many others, who believed in Him and followed Him from place to place because of their devotion to Him. Some of the most faithful and devoted among these followers seem to be the group of women mentioned in this text. They show up from time to time in the gospel accounts, but most notably in the events surrounding the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. When most of the apostles had abandoned Jesus, these women were at the foot of the cross, grieving for their friend and Lord. Some of them were there when Jesus’ body was laid in the tomb, and they returned on the resurrection morning to properly prepare His body for burial. They were among the first to witness the resurrection. These women were faithful, devoted, courageous followers of Christ who serve as wonderful examples for us.
What can we learn from the example of these women?
Don’t forget to pray and have a great day!
