Jesus Comforts the Women of Jerusalem

 

Luke 8:1-3 After this, Jesus traveled from one city and village to another. He spread the Good News about God’s kingdom. The twelve apostles were with Him. Also, some women were with him. They had been cured from evil spirits and various illnesses. These women were Mary, also called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out; Joanna, whose husband Chusa was Herod’s administrator; Susanna; and many other women. They provided financial support for Jesus and his disciples.

Mark 15:40-41 There were also women looking on from a distance, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and Joses, and Salome. When He was in Galilee, they followed him and ministered to Him, and there were many other women who came up with Him to Jerusalem.

Gratitude

What would you do for someone who freed you from prison? Who healed your child? Who raised your child from the dead? Who abolished your fears? Who destroyed the demons taunting you?

These are the questions we ask when we read Jesus heals the 10 lepers and only one returns with gratitude. How is gratitude expressed? Is there a such thing as too much gratitude? Are we grateful for even what appears to be a big fat “NO!” answer to our prayers?

Is the extravagance of an unnamed woman as she anoints the feet of Jesus “over the top.” (Luke 7:36-39) or of Mary of Bethany as she anoints Jesus for burial? (Matt. 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9, Luke 7:36-50, John 12:1-8)

Gratitude battles entitlement every day. The sacrifice God desires is this: “He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; And to him who orders his way aright I shall show the salvation of God.” (Psalm 53:20)

Sacrifice of Thanksgiving

These women loved Jesus and gave to Him a sacrifice of thanksgiving not just once but continually. They supported His ministry as He lived, died, and rose again. His ministry was carried on by His disciples and these women as they spread the Good News of God’s love.

Mary Magdalene is one of my heroes. She was oh so broken, but look at all God did through her redeemed life. She NEVER got over her thankfulness. She NEVER forgot where she was and all Jesus did for her. The possessed became passionate. The lunatic became loved. The sick became secure. The controlled became compassionate. Every fiber of her being became sold out to the Master because He was her rescuer: Her Savior!

If Jesus can do this for her, what will He do for me? Would I be as appreciative? I want to honor Jesus and all He has done and will do for me.

Make a list of three things each day you are thankful for and watch how your heart begins to focus not on what you need/want but all you already possess. I did. Perspective changes everything! Jesus friends had perspective and passion. Focus on all he has done already and gratitude will fill your soul. Jesus friends are grateful people.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYR0xP1j4PY

Rescue by Lauren Daigle

(Hear Jesus speak these words into your weary heart! He hears your cry for help! Trust me he heard me!)