Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Luke 8:1-3

 March 29

"After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means." -Luke 8:1-3 (NIV)

Women's liberation is nothing new. Jesus was at the forefront of this movement long ago if we believe what Luke is telling us in this scripture. Unlike others who demanded subordination from females, Jesus liberated women. He freed them from humiliation, degradation, oppression, and servitude to joys of fellowship and service. In Jewish culture then, women were usually forbidden to learn from rabbis. By inviting women to travel with him, Jesus shows us all people throughout time are equal under God. Luke also says Mary, Joanna, and Susanna were not the only women travelling with Jesus but there were many other healed women that were a vital part of his ministry. Luke tells us these women supported Jesus' ministry with their own money and travelled with him and the male disciples as they spread the Good News.

Here we catch just a glimpse of some of the essential people behind the scenes in Jesus' ministry. The successful ministry of those in the foreground is almost always supported by those whose work is less visible but just as essential. Whether your ministry is center stage or backstage, the mission of spreading the Good News of Christ cannot be successful without you! Don't ever lose heart or feel your contribution to our Lord is unimportant. Your ministry is vital! Have the courage to continue to offer your gifts, labors, and resources to God, whether or not you are on center stage.

Prayer: God, Thank you for the liberation and freedom Jesus offers to all people whether male or female. Amen.

Meditation For The Day: Prejudice intimidates. Jesus liberates.

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)