Our Scripture reading today is Luke 8:1-3.
Verses 2-3, "And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance."
Unlike most religious leaders and teachers of His day, Jesus was more than willing to include women in this time of teaching. Dr. Luke lists some of the ladies that were part of His followers and how they contributed to the ministry. Jesus was willing to receive help from what some may have referred to as lesser help. "Many of us are too proud to receive help from others. Sometimes the ability to humbly receive is a better measure of Jesus in our life than the ability to give. Giving sometimes puts us in a higher place but receiving may put us in a lower place."
There is also a great contrast in the "class" of women mentioned by Dr. Luke. Mary Magdalene and Joanna would not have typically been mentioned in the same sentence for anything. Joanna's husband was the steward for Herod. He looked after all of his finances. This position was given to someone who was highly trusted. Joanna is working right along side a woman who was once possessed with seven devils. When we join the family of God, we are on level ground. Praise God!
Interesting note that these two ladies were some of the first to arrive at the empty tomb and then deliver a powerful message to the apostles. Luke 24:10, "It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles."
I am thankful for the many women of God who have helped influenced me for the cause of Jesus Christ!