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Disciples of Diverse Backgrounds
Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and
proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying him
were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits
and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had
gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and
many others who provided for them out of their resources. Luke
8:1–3
Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and “many others” faithfully
accompanied Jesus and the Twelve. This diverse group of disciples
defied conventional expectations. They were not the kind of
followers one might ordinarily assemble when launching a mission
destined to reach the ends of the earth. Yet God’s wisdom is not
like our own. He perceives greatness not in social status, talent,
or wealth, but in the sincerity, purity, and potential of each
heart.
The inclusion of women among Jesus’ traveling companions is
striking within the cultural framework of first-century Judaism. He
not only welcomed them into His company but also entrusted them
with meaningful participation in His mission. In doing so, He
affirmed their dignity and revealed the universal scope of His
call.
Even more surprising is that some of these women came from
questionable or afflicted pasts. Mary Magdalene is named first:
“from whom seven demons had gone out.” The number seven signifies
completeness, suggesting a full and profound liberation—perhaps
from both moral disorder and physical torment. Her healing reveals
the immense power of divine mercy. Once bound by darkness, she
became a devoted disciple, eventually standing at the foot of the
Cross and witnessing the glory of the Resurrection. Her life
exemplifies how gratitude for mercy can blossom into unwavering
love and enduring fidelity.
Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, also deserves
attention. Her association with Herod’s court—a place marked by
corruption—shows that the Gospel can penetrate even into
environments of great moral disorder. Susanna and the many other
unnamed women round out this community, highlighting a growing
circle of female disciples drawn by the love and truth of
Christ.
These women provided for Jesus and the Twelve “out of their
resources.” Their generosity was not only material, it was
spiritual. Their stewardship played a vital role in sustaining the
mission of Christ. By offering what they had, they became
instruments of grace, foreshadowing the ongoing collaboration in
the Church between lay and ordained, men and women, rich and
poor.
This early fellowship of followers models the Church in every age.
They came from all walks of life: some devout, others formerly
sinful; some wealthy, others of humble means; both men and women;
people of high and low estate. Yet they were united in a single
purpose: to follow Jesus and serve the Kingdom of God with all that
they were.
Reflect today on this unexpected company Jesus formed. Many people
struggle with a sense of unworthiness or feel inadequate in their
spiritual lives. If you have ever felt this way, take heart in the
diverse group Christ called. Their varied and imperfect backgrounds
reveal the deep and consoling truth that no one is beyond being
called by God. Each of us, no matter our past or present, is
invited to walk with Him, to offer what we have, and to participate
fully in His redemptive mission. Accept this invitation. Join this
holy company. And give yourself wholeheartedly to the proclamation
of the Kingdom of God.
Most merciful Lord, You always look beyond the sin to see the
sinner, offering Your boundless mercy to all who turn to You in
repentance. Please continue to call me to participate in Your
divine mission of building Your Kingdom here on earth, so that I
and all whom You touch through me may share in the eternal joy of
Your Heavenly Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You.
Image: The Apostles, by Lawrence OP, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
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