Gospel Reading: Lk 8:1-3
Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God.
Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.
ACCOMPANYING HIM WERE THE TWELVE AND SOME WOMEN
Here, Luke notes the work of three women of faith. As Jesus ministers, he draws followers who come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Mary Magdalene serves after having seven demons exorcised by Jesus. Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, gives evidence that Jesus’ message has found its way even into the palace. When these and other women come to faith, they immediately give of their resources to enable Jesus’ ministry to continue. This note is important, since the passage makes clear that those contributing to Jesus’ ministry span both gender diversity and social scale. The pattern of grace received and ministry pursued emerges in the exemplary response of these women.
Their ministry comes at two levels: personal involvement and the contribution of resources. Both levels are important to effective ministry. In sum, this text of 8:1-3 affirming the role of women in firstcentury culture where they are either seen as property or relegated to an almost invisible role, is significant in showing that women play a major role in contributing to the ministry of the Church.
Those who receive grace should render grace in return (cf 1 Cor 9:11).
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SOURCE: “366 Days with the Lord,” ST PAULS, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 895-9701; Fax 895-7328; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.