It’s int
eresting to follow Jesus’ three-year ministry. We notice that as his ministry grew, so did his band of followers–from the early calling of James, John, Peter, and Andrew to the naming of the 12 apostles, and to the sending of over 70 out into the mission field. Much has been written about these specially chosen people who walked with Jesus, ate with Jesus, and slept where Jesus slept. Yet there were also a number of people who played lesser roles in that ministry, whose support and presence were both necessary and noteworthy.
Some of these people include Simon of Cyrene, the man who willingly carried Jesus’ cross; Nicodemus, the Jewish leader who met Jesus at night and provided spices for Jesus’ burial; and Joseph of Arimathea, the man who donated a tomb for Jesus.
Scripture also mentions a number of women who faithfully and willingly followed their Savior. Notably, many of these women remained faithful throughout the death and burial of Jesus, long after the men had fled. These women include Mary Magdalene; Salome, the mother of James and John; and Mary, the mother of James and Joses.
There is one woman who steps into Scripture for two brief moments, yet she teaches us some real lessons about service to the Lord. We can notice that she was also a background player, for she is mentioned only in the book of Luke. Yet her life ministry is to be commended and considered. Her name is Joanna. Like several others, Jesus had cured her either of evil spirits or disease. “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 Cuza . . . Susanna; and many others” (8:1-3).
But that passage tells us more about Joanna. She was “the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod’s household” (8:3). Can you imagine the boldness this woman displayed? Here is a woman who lived in the house of Herod, yet followed her Savior. And following her Master was not all, “These women were helping to support them [Jesus and his apostles] out of their own means” (8:3). What a remarkable woman!
The last time we see Joanna is at the burial site of her Master. Scripture tells us that “the women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes” (23:55,56). “On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. . . . It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them” (24:1,10).
Though mention of her is brief and fleeting, we should not overlook the lesson she teaches us about what it takes to be a true follower of Jesus. Joanna showed a willingness to search out her Lord when she needed a hand to help her. She believed that Jesus was indeed her Lord and Savior. She demonstrated a deep and abiding love for her Master. She taught us the meaning of true Christian stewardship, and she remained faithful to her Lord even when it might have cost her everything.
We never hear of Joanna again, but it can certainly be assumed that today this seemingly insignificant follower of Jesus has been awarded a crown of victory. Jesus clearly tells us, “Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me” (John 12:26).
Lord, give me the strength to boldly follow you in every situation. Amen.
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