How can we emulate the "women who had followed" Jesus in our lives? Setting the Scene: Luke 23:49 “But all those who knew Him, including the women who had followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance watching these events.” Who Were These Women? • Luke 8:1-3 names Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and “many others,” noting they “were ministering to them out of their own means.” • They had journeyed with Jesus from Galilee (Mark 15:40-41), stood by the cross (John 19:25-27), watched the burial (Luke 23:55), and were first at the empty tomb (Luke 24:1-10). • Their lives illustrate steady devotion, practical service, and courageous witness. Key Qualities to Emulate • Unwavering Loyalty – They stayed when the cost was highest; the apostles, except John, had fled (Matthew 26:56). – Emulate by standing for Christ in hostile settings, refusing quiet compromise (2 Timothy 1:8). • Courageous Identification – Publicly associated with a condemned Savior. – Practice open allegiance: speak His name in conversation, workplace, and community (Romans 1:16). • Persevering Presence – “Followed…stood…watched.” Their ministry was often silent yet persistent. – Be present for hurting people, showing patient, listening love (Galatians 6:2). • Practical Generosity – They supported Jesus “out of their own means” (Luke 8:3). – Budget for kingdom priorities: missionaries, church needs, relief work (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Prepared Devotion – Bought and prepared burial spices (Luke 23:56). – Plan rhythms that honor Christ: regular worship, communion, remembrance of the cross (1 Corinthians 11:24-26). • Watchful Expectation – Eyes fixed on every detail of His suffering and burial, they were ready to respond when the stone rolled away. – Cultivate alertness to God’s movements today through study, prayerful meditation, and sensitivity to the Spirit (Mark 13:33). • Bold Witness – They announced the resurrection to the apostles, though initially disbelieved (Luke 24:9-11). – Share the gospel faithfully, leaving results to God (Acts 4:20). Practical Steps for Today • Start each day in Scripture; read the Gospels slowly, letting Jesus’ words sink deep. • Join or form a small group that serves together—meals for the sick, visits to shut-ins, local evangelism. • Allocate a percentage of income specifically for advancing the gospel. • Keep a journal of answered prayers and ways God has proven faithful; review it to strengthen courage. • When cultural pressure mounts, recall these women at the cross and speak truth graciously yet firmly. Encouragement to Continue The women from Galilee prove that resolute, everyday faithfulness leaves a lasting testimony. By following Jesus with the same loyal hearts—whatever the cost, wherever He leads—we mirror their devotion and magnify our risen Lord. |
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