out of the ordinary | the disciples

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. We start with the disciples. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

"Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!" Luke 24:5, NIV

The 12 men we refer to as disciples were a subset of a larger group which travelled with Jesus. Standing alongside them was an extraordinary group of women. Many of them had been healed by the Lord, others were drawn to support him financially, all were devoted to him and his ministry. Most risked their reputation but one - Joanna - risked her life.

Joanna was the wife of a wealthy official named Cuza who was a senior official, the manager of Herod’s household. Cuza controlled the treasury and property of the court. As a prominent noblewoman in Herod's court, Joanna would have been a noteworthy supporter of Jesus'. Not only so, but Joanna helped fund Jesus' ministry from her own income. Since Herod was Jesus' adversary, Joanna's allegiance and actions would have put her in direct opposition to the powerful king.

Despite this, Joanna followed Jesus and was absolutely committed to him even as she remained living in the palace. (Some Bible experts believe the detail of events that took place in the palace before the crucifixion were provided to the disciples by Joanna.)  Joanna is one of the three women who discover the empty tomb of Jesus’ resurrection (Luke 24:1–12) and is probably one of the women mentioned in the Upper Room during Pentecost. A witness to the resurrection and a proven faithful follower of Jesus, Joanna became one of the first missionaries. Scholars conclude that the disciple Joanna and Junia (Romans 16:7) are the same woman.

In the company of Jesus, Joanna discovered an identity beyond that of “Chuza’s wife”. The same can happen for us. We are the best version of ourselves when we are following Jesus, aligned to his purposes, and our identity is in him. Who are you to Jesus today?

Let's pray
Lord, make me brave. Direct me to explore how you have equipped me to serve others and bring you glory. Bring into my life the people and opportunities that reveal my purposes and the destiny helpers who enable me to fulfil them. Empower me to walk in my calling. For your glory and in Jesus' name. Amen.