What Was at Stake for Mary

You’ve probably never heard a sermon these verses, particularly not the last sentence. As you read through this scripture passage, ask yourself why that might be.

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

You noticed, of course, that it was the women who paid for Jesus’s ministry expenses. And you noticed, as well, that these influential women also travelled with Jesus just like the 12 disciples. Hmmm…

Think about the stories of women like Mary and Chuza. They are coming out of diverse backgrounds and Jesus has met them in ways that no man has ever done before. Jesus has rescued them, healed them, delivered them - whether from demons or denarii, from mental or marital challenges, or from the insults thrown at them by others or by themselves.

No wonder these were the women who were with him on Easter morning. The boys took a peek in the tomb and went on their way. The women not only got their first; they also stuck around. Why might that have been? What are the implications for your life today?