There were also many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him, among whom were Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
The role of women in the story of Jesus can often be understated. Though not always centerpieces of the narrative presented in the Gospels, we can still gain insights into their significant faithfulness and devotion. This moment in the story of the death and resurrection of Jesus gives us such a glimpse.
Here are a few observations about these women from this short passage:
These women were present at the death of Jesus. This is a very significant fact as the male disciples were not (save John, according to John in his Gospel). This must not be overlooked. Though the society at the time would not assume the women to be followers of Jesus as discipleship at the time was reserved for men, they still placed themselves in a place of peril by being in proximity to the executions that day.*
The women followed Jesus from Galilee. This fact speaks to their faithfulness due to the great distance that they traveled.* They did not happen upon the event, nor were they coming by as a convenience. They were committed followers willing to go the distance.
As stated, the society at the time did not make provisions for female disciples, yet these women followed Jesus throughout His earthly ministry. As a counter-cultural act, they followed Jesus at the peril of their reputation.*
In light of these brave and faithful followers of Jesus, I must ask the Lord, how many times have I shirked away from following You when it seemed dangerous, too far to go, or unconventional? When was the last time that following Jesus risked my reputation? When was the last time I followed Him even when it did?
Today, take a step.
Maybe today the one step God wants you to take is to remember these women. Perhaps He wants you to find inspiration from them or to remind you to value those in your life that maybe others overlook. Maybe God wants you to remember that following Him isn’t always easy. Perhaps God wants you to step into being who He called you to be no matter what, just as these women did.
Whatever the step, ask God to direct it. Take a moment to take that step. Invite Him to speak. He will.
Life is a long road. Walk it with Jesus. Take a water break… we all get thirsty.
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*Leon, Morris, The Gospel According to Matthew. Pillar New Testament Commentary (Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1992), 726–732), and Keener, C. S., Matthew (Vol. 1, Mt Mt 27:55–66).) (InterVarsity Press, 1997).