Seventeenth Day of Lent

Seventeenth Day of Lent

Monday, March 20, 2017

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 seen demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Cuza, 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

This is one of my absolute favorite passages in the Bible! I discovered it about thirty-five years ago. I thought it was wonderful then, and I still do.

The total message of Jesus’ coming is actually bound up in the first part of this passage: the kingdom of God is good news, and it is at hand! From village to village Jesus went with his message.

But look at who he took with him as he traveled with his life-changing message! What an unlikely entourage! Of course, the twelve were there. They needed to learn this message well, for it would be entrusted to them when he left. But women! Why would a good Jewish rabbi surround himself with women? Not just women, but high-born ones and unsavory ones all working together! And he allowed them to support him?

Only Jesus would have dared to gather such a group of people. He’s still doing that today! If you don’t believe it, look at any church congregation! The greatest message the world has ever heard, and he entrusted it to an unlikely bunch! That’s what the kingdom of God is like! The awesome fact is that he believes, with his help, we can be up to the task! Amazing!

Prayer: Fill us with your Holy Spirit so that this strange crowd of believers – your church – can carefully and well proclaim the message of the kingdom of God to others. Amen.

And He Set His Face toward Jerusalem. . . .

A Lenten Devotional Guide
prepared for Homosassa United Methodist Church, Spring 2007,
by Patience Nave, Christian Education Coordinator