Strong Support
Devotional Contributor: Al Schierbaum
Scripture:
Luke 8:1—3 "Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.”
Observation:
Mary Magdalene was part of group of people who followed Jesus and the disciples. This group of mainly women, were all touched by the love, grace, and healing of Jesus. They, like the disciples, were willing to leave everything and follow Jesus. Their calling was to serve the Master and His mission. They were vital to the mission of Jesus and a lot was needed to pull off the mission. God loves to see people step up and bring what they have to the table. This group of people that served Jesus was very diverse. They were men and women from different parts of Israel, different economic situations, different vocations, different pollical and religious affiliations. God uses people from all different walks of life and beautifully meshes them together. Under Jesus, no one person is more important than the other. It is the way it should be.
Application:
Every minister and ministry need strong support! It is the faithful people behind the scenes who provide their time and resources that can make a ministry thrive. Even Jesus and His disciples had people providing for their needs and serving in various roles to help make things happen. The three T’s of serving in this way are: Time, Talents, and Treasure. Have you dedicated your time, talents, and/or treasures to the cause of Christ? God has raised up many people, ministries and churches with a specific calling that need the assistance of people who bring their time, talents, and treasures to make it happen. Are you using your time, talents, and treasure for God’s glory? If not, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.
Request:
Dear Lord Jesus, I am thankful for the time, talents and treasures you have given me. I dedicate them to you to use however you wish. Direct my steps to the ministries that You want me to serve for Your glory! Amen