Were you there? Joanna

After this, Jesus travelled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means. Luke 8:1-3 NIV

Her husband was powerful. His boss was fearful. But her Saviour, was faithful! Joanna stands out as a woman of bold faith, willing to risk everything for Jesus.

The women in today’s passage were healed by Jesus and responded by supporting him with their resources, travelling with him from town to town, and believing in him from the depths of their hearts. For Joanna, this commitment came with great risk. She was the wife of Chuza, a trusted manager in Herod Antipas’ household. Chuza held a respected position and likely served as a confidant of Herod, the ruthless ruler who had inherited his father’s evil nature. Herod’s father, Herod the Great, was the tyrant who ordered the slaughter of the innocents in Bethlehem, fearing the consequences for him of the birth of the Messiah.

Nevertheless, Joanna used her resources to support Jesus. She cared for him, followed him, and was faithful all the way to the cross and the empty tomb that followed. Joanna would undoubtedly have feared Herod, but her faith was greater than her fear.

Let’s pray
Lord, grant me the courage to trust you above all, even when faced with fear or uncertainty. May my faith, like Joanna's, be bold and unwavering. In Jesus’ name. Amen.