A reading from the gospel according to Luke 8:1-3

1 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
2 and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out,
3 Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.

Reflection: Women

Good News: Jesus preached with the support of women.

The gospel above tells us how women supported the fulfillment of Jesus’ mission by providing His needs and that of His apostles. In a strictly patriarchal society, Jesus broke tradition and gave women the dignity due them. He gave them a role in the mission. Indeed, the word inclusiveness is not a new concept. Jesus applied it in practice. In the Kingdom of God, no one is excluded.

In modern times, we can observe how society have changed or is changing. Although there are still many countries that are patriarchal, women everywhere take an active role in the mission. In fact, in some churches, the servants are mostly women and only a few men are active.

Jesus calls everyone to participate in the mission regardless of gender or background. We note how Mary Magdalene was transformed into an avid supporter of Jesus as He went around from one town to another proclaiming the Kingdom of God. May we all emulate her and the other women in support of the church’s mission to continue the works of Jesus.