Scripture to Read: Luke 8:1–3
Jesus had many followers during His ministry here, and God gives us a look, as He had Luke record this in Luke 8:1–3, “Soon afterwards, He began going around from one city and village to another, proclaiming and preaching the kingdom of God. The twelve were with Him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and sicknesses: Mary who was called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who were contributing to their support out of their private means.” Jesus knew His time on earth was short and that He had come to fulfill God the Father’s perfect plan. So, Jesus started going from city to city, village to village, and town to town, “proclaiming and preaching the kingdom of God.” What a great reminder for us, as Christ’s followers, of what He has called us to do each day. Jesus gave us the command in Matthew 28:19 and Acts 1:8 to go and make disciples (to lead others to know and follow Him) and to be His witnesses wherever we may be. For the most part, all the people who followed Jesus had been transformed by Him—of course, Judas Iscariot was one of the exceptions. Some of those people who followed Him helped take care of Him and the other disciples’ needs. Ministry was never designed by God to be done alone. God wants us to serve with others and help each other with the provisions, gifts, and talents that God has given us.
Challenge & Application
What provisions, gifts, and talents has God given you?
How are you using those provisions, gifts, and talents to serve other followers of Christ and to honor our Lord?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!