Jesus and Women (Lk 8:1-3)

Gospel text (Lk 8,1-3): Jesus walked through towns and countryside, preaching and giving the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve followed him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and diseases: Mary called Magdalene, who had been freed of seven demons; Joanna, wife of Chuza, Herod's steward; Suzanna and others who provided for them out of their own funds.

Evangelist Luke records a new, unique and important information in the ministry of the Lord. The other Evangelists have rarely noticed this. Jesus went through many towns preaching the good news with the twelve disciples. Along with the men disciples, there were also some women.(they too were sinful and sick but healed by Jesus). How is this possible within the Jewish context in the first century?

This Lucan addition gives us three lessons; 

1. We need others in our life and ministry: 

Jesus did not want to build the kingdom of God alone (Even if it was possible for Him). Jesus knew to walk with others, men and women who were capable of receiving the healing from him. This is an important aspect in building the kingdom of God. Church is not the 'One man army'. "To see things in this way brings the joyful realization that not one people, culture, or individual can achieve everything on its own; to attain fulfilment in life we need others". (Encyclical Fratelli tutti (All Brothers) of the Holy Father Francis)

2. Reservation not 32, but 50:

Luke's Gospel prominently speaks about the equality of men and women. From the beginning of the birth stories of the Gospel until the resurrection of Jesus, there is an intentional inclusion of women alongside men. There are many researches on 'gender equality in Luke's gospel'; Elizabeth and Mary along with Zechariah and Joseph were also functioning as independent agents of God in the narratives. Simeon and Anna, participation of women in the public ministry of Jesus, women at the burial of Jesus. There are also parables with the characters of men and women; Shepherd searching for his sheep and a woman searching for a coin. The society needs the participation of women to have integral construction. (compare to the Taliban who ban sports and seats in election for Afghan women) 

3. Man or women can share according to their state of life. It is possible only through their personal relationship with Jesus. Elizabeth, Mary Magdalene and any other women of the Gospel had cherished beautiful and rich relationship with Jesus. We become successful men and women because of the grace, the call Jesus that has granted to each one of us according to our gifts.