“Support The Lord’s Work Out Of Your Own Means!”
A Sunday school teacher wanted to know from the children the role of the Christian Women Fellowship(CWF). A little boy responded, “the CWF women cook food to entertain guests.” The important roles women play both in society and church are often undermined by a male oriented society.
From biblical times and into our own communities patriarchy and male chauvinism are always highlighted. The tenth commandment lumps women with property as things belonging to the man which another man must not covet(Ex.20:17). This is to say the commandments were not for the woman.
In our text today Luke highlights the important role some women played in Jesus’ ministry. Luke informs us that as Jesus “travelled from one town and village to another, proclaiming the goodnews of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, and aslo some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joana the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others.” These women did not just accompany Jesus, they “were helping to support them out of their own means”(8:1-3).
What lessons can we learn from these women?
- They followed Jesus to the towns and villages he travelled to.
- Many of the women after receiving healing remained with Jesus all through. Unlike today where people come to Jesus, receive healing and just dissappear!
- Joanna did not consider her high status as the wife of the manager of Herod’s household.
- Lastly, they did not only sacrifice their time, they supported the ministry “out of their own means.”
My friend, let us learn from these women to sacrifice our time, talent and money to the service of the Lord. Let us learn to follow him not for what we would benefit, but for what we can offer for the service of God’s kingdom!
After all, whatever you do or give to God is only giving back a little of what he has given to you becsuse “the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it…”(Ps.24:1).
Prayer: Lord Jesus help me not to relent my effort in giving for kingdom work and doing kingdom work as I bring others to you. Amen!
Have a blessed day! Peace be with you!