Luke
8:1-3
“The twelve were with him, as
well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and
infirmities…”
(Luke 8:1b-2a)
This statement is significant in Luke’s
telling of the gospel story. We readily
think of the twelve disciples who walked with Jesus during his ministry. At times the gospel writers speak more
broadly about other followers beyond the twelve. Here, the writer specifically mentions “some
women” who followed him. As is often
noted in biblical and historical review, women did not enjoy the same rights or
opportunities as men in the ancient world.
Perhaps you have heard the prayer some in Jesus’ day might have prayed,
which said, “I thank God I am neither a gentile nor a
woman.”
Luke’s recognition of women as followers here is
significant because it marks a shift in thinking about the value of every human
being before God. The human distinctions
that so easily allow us to devalue others are removed here as those once deemed
unworthy, become welcome partners. This
shift in perspective is revolutionary and ultimately broader than gender.
There is an old saying, “The ground at the foot of the
cross is level,” which means all are welcome in the saving grace of God. It was risky behavior in the first century…it
still is today.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that your grace reaches to
all…regardless. Amen.
Jim Abernathy
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