Monday 22 July 2024
Soon afterwards he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. (v. 1)
Background
This passage starts "Soon afterwards". It's referring to Jesus' visit to a Pharisee's home for dinner where a woman washed his feet with her tears and anointed them (Luke: 7:37-38; 44-48, 49).
With refreshed feet Jesus continues his evangelistic journey, travelling through towns and villages. Luke records Jesus travelling about to many places to fulfil his calling to preach the good news (4:18). It is Luke (the doctor) who tells us that these women are themselves recipients of Jesus ministry. And it is Luke who affords them their names and identities. These influential women, Mary, Joanna and Susanna, along with others, provided for Jesus and his 12 companions (v. 3). This was more than domestic provision. They ministered to Jesus. Luke is telling us that through their ministry they enable Jesus in his.
This passage speaks of our connectedness, of how we complement, support and enable each other in the telling of the good news.
To Ponder:
- What does the good news of the kingdom of God mean to you and how was it proclaimed to you?
- What is your calling and how is it enabling others in their calling?
- Who are you called to work with, or alongside, to proclaim the good news, and how?
Prayer
Lord God, you brought Mary, Joanna, Susanna and others to minister to Jesus. Help us in our own ministries to enable others and to proclaim the good news of your kingdom. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd David Newlove
David is Co-Superintendent in the North Cumbria Circuit. He is also an agricultural chaplain and he has been designated as the Mission Area Lead for Cumbria in the new North West England District.