Provide

Luke 8:1-3 He went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities… who provided for them out of their means.

Have you taken a trip lately? If so, you know it costs to travel: gas, lodging, food, tolls, unexpected repairs. It is no wonder “staycations” – where people stay at home and visit local sites during extended times off work – are getting more and more popular. Sometimes, though, we need to travel. Sometimes the mission requires it. How many business deals would fall through without face to face negotiations? Could multinational companies exists without business travel?

Although they did not have to worry about gasoline, Jesus and his disciples had expenses as they fulfilled his mission of taking the good news of the kingdom of God through all of Galilee and Judea. Thirteen mouths to feed daily can be quite costly. However, their expenses were covered for them by people who received the benefit of their ministry. Mary, Joanna, Susanna, and the “many others” who were healed and delivered by the power of Jesus responded by providing for Jesus’ ministry team “out of their own means.” They were helped, so they helped, and their help enabled others to be helped. That is how the kingdom of God has expanded practically for centuries: Those who have been helped by the good news help provide so others can be helped. The kingdom multiplies. The mission is accomplished. Let us do our part of providing from our own means so that the mission can continue.