THE FORGOTTEN WOMEN OF LUKE 8

Luke 8:1–3 is one of those passages many of us have read without giving it much thought. It is only three verses long, tucked between the end of one story and the beginning of another. Yet in those few verses, the Holy Spirit gives us a glimpse into Jesus’ earthly ministry that we might otherwise miss.

“Soon afterwards, He began going around from one city and village to another, proclaiming and preaching the kingdom of God. The twelve were with Him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and sicknesses: Mary who was called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who were contributing to their support out of their private means.” (Luke 8:1–3)

When we picture Jesus during His earthly ministry, we usually think of Him preaching to crowds, healing the sick, or teaching His disciples. We rarely stop to ask a simple question. How did Jesus and the Twelve live from day to day?

They traveled constantly from one town to another. They needed food to eat, clothing to wear, and supplies for the journey. Jesus could have provided all of these things by miracle if He had chosen to do so. After all, He fed thousands with a few loaves and fish. Yet that is not how He normally worked.

Instead, God provided through faithful people.

Luke tells us that several women traveled with Jesus and the Twelve. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and “many others.” These women had first experienced the grace of God. Some had been healed of diseases. Mary Magdalene had been delivered from seven demons. Their lives had been changed by Christ.

Then they responded by serving Him.

The Greek text says they were continually serving Jesus and the apostles from what belonged to them. Luke does not simply say they gave money. The phrase refers to their possessions, resources, or whatever God had entrusted to them. They used what they had to care for the practical needs of Jesus and His disciples.

That is an important truth.

Not everyone is called to preach. Not everyone is called to teach. But every believer has something God can use for His kingdom. Whether it is our time, our abilities, our home, our finances, or other resources, God calls us to use what He has placed in our hands for His glory.

There is another detail that should not be overlooked. Luke records the names of these women for all future generations to read. We know very little about Susanna beyond these verses, yet God chose to include her name in His Word forever. The world often remembers the famous and the powerful. God remembers the faithful.

These women were not seeking recognition. They were simply serving the One who had changed their lives. Their ministry may have seemed ordinary, but it was essential. As Jesus proclaimed the Kingdom of God, they quietly helped make that ministry possible.

Perhaps that is why the Holy Spirit included these three verses. They remind us that God's work is accomplished not only through those who stand before the crowds, but also through those who faithfully serve behind the scenes.

The next time you read Luke 8, do not hurry past these verses. They remind us that every act of faithful service matters to God. Whether our service is seen by thousands or known only to Him, He sees it, He values it, and He uses it for His glory.

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“What I write is not for everyone, but what I write is meant for someone.” – Dean Butler

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