Thoughts for the Day

Jesus went on through the cities and villages proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their resources.

(New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

In this passage Luke mentions the women who follow Jesus, and who are providing financially for him and the disciples. These women range from Mary of Magdala who obviously had a horrendous life before being cured by Jesus, and at the other end of the scale there is Joanna the wife of Herod's Steward - he would have looked after the King's financial interests.

Women were to grow in prominence throughout Jesus' ministry. His attitude to women was unusual, since at this time men would never speak to a woman outside their family. For example, the disciples were amazed to see Jesus talking with the Samaritan woman at the well of Sychar. (John Chapter 4.7-26)

After the resurrection the role of women continued to grow. It was the women who took the news of the risen Lord to the Disciples (who didn't believe them!). But it was to take centuries for women to be priested.* Today, let us pray for all women and their ministry in our church.

Friday 18th September, follow up thoughts

* eg It was 1994 before women were priested in Great Britain. Before that I spent 14 years as a Reader, then some years as a Deaconess, and then a Deacon, before being priested in May 1994.

Lord Jesus,
we thank You for the way
You called women and men
to follow You.
May we continue that work
in our world,
encouraging all Christians
to use their gifts and talents
in Your service.
Amen.