I don’t know whether you’ve ever had the experience of looking at a great painting and being struck by some minor detail in it, perhaps a tiny figure hidden in a corner. There’s something of the fascinating overlooked detail in this little passage in Luke’s gospel:

After this, Jesus traveled 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)

Jesus was always on the move—the original traveling preacher. His mission was clear: to bring the message of hope, forgiveness and God’s kingdom to everyone.

These women were not just passive followers.

In a culture that sidelined women, Jesus included them as partners in ministry. These women were not just passive followers, they were active participants.

The Gospels tell of a group of women who, having been healed or delivered by Jesus, chose to accompany him and the disciples in his itinerant ministry.