FEMALE DISCIPLES
1 CORINTHIANS 15:12-20; PSALM 16; LUKE 8:1-3
Luke 8:1-3 illustrates the call of the women, who followed Jesus in his ministry. Jesus needed a large team of people to support him in his work. The twelve played a significant part, but a great number of other people made the effort possible. Some women assisted the ministry of Jesus. These women witnessed to the episode on Mount Calvary, they were present at his burial and they saw the Risen Lord. Many of them gave their resources and testified to the Lord’s resurrection.
Again, this passage shows that Jesus was not “choosy” about his followers by describing the colorful group (some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities). No matter our past or current circumstances, He comes to call us all. For each of us, he has tremendous expectations. He wants all of us.
These women “provided for them out of their resources” (Luke 8:3). This verse demonstrates how well-off individuals contributed to the Lord’s mission; Jesus and the Christian community relied on people’s generosity to carry out their work. What ways do we assist the Church’s mission today?
Lastly, Paul says in the first reading “If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vein” (1Cor.15:14). Christianity is meaningful because Christ rose from the dead. This is the pillar of our faith and the reason for our eternal hope. Therefore, we must not cease to promote the Good News of the resurrection through our availability, collaboration and resources.
Saints Cornelius and Cyprian, pray for us
LET US PRAY
Almighty God, may we serve you with all our hearts, minds and actions. Help us to use your gifts to promote your Kingdom. Teach us to be available for mission and to support missionary works. Amen.
