Daily Devotional - Discipleship - WK34 - 08/19/24 - Day 211 “No Gender in Service"

Author: Evangelist Lisa Dalton

"No Gender in Service"
Scripture: Luke 8:1-3 (NKJV)

"Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, 2 and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, 3 and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance."

Devotion:
In these few verses, we see a powerful testament to the diverse community that surrounded Jesus during His ministry. While Jesus traveled with the Twelve[MOU1] disciples, Luke makes special mention of several women who were also significant to His ministry. These women were not just passive followers; they were active supporters, contributing their resources and serving faithfully.

Let us look at Mary Magdalene and Joanna. They both had experienced profound transformations through Jesus' healing and deliverance. Their devotion to Jesus was a response to the incredible change He had made in their lives. This reminds us that our own acts of service and generosity should flow from a heart of gratitude for what God has done for us.

They were also financially supporting Jesus and His disciples. This detail is significant because it highlights that everyone has a role to play in the kingdom of God. Even though these women were not among the Twelve disciples, their contributions were essential to the continuation of Jesus’ ministry. This is an encouragement for us to use whatever resources or talents we must to support God’s work, knowing that every contribution matters.

Jesus’ ministry was inclusive, breaking societal norms by acknowledging and valuing the contributions of women. In a time when women were often marginalized, Jesus not only welcomed them but relied on their support. This speaks to the inclusive nature of the Gospel—everyone, regardless of their background, gender, or social status, is valuable in God’s kingdom. There is no gender in service.

Application:
Recognize Your Value: No matter how small your contribution might seem, it is valuable to God. Reflect on how you can use your resources, time, or talents to support your local church or community.

Serve with Gratitude: Like the women who followed Jesus, let your service be a response to God’s love and grace in your life. Look for ways to express your gratitude through acts of service.

Embrace Inclusivity: Reflect on how you can be more inclusive in your community, valuing and encouraging the contributions of others, especially those who might feel overlooked.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the example of these faithful women who supported Your ministry. Help us to follow their example by serving with gratitude and supporting the work of Your kingdom with whatever we have. May we always recognize the value of every person and every gift in Your eyes. Amen.