Conflict and Triumph by Deacon Bill Reid

Please check out Luke 8:1-3.

1After 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, 2and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3Joanna the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means. (NIV)

Some things jumped out at me when I read these Scriptures:
(1) Jesus had at least two women traveling with Him 'through every city;' these women could be called disciples;
(2) and Herod, who was the epitome of evil (His father was Herod "the great" who had attempted to have Jesus killed as an infant when he ordered the killing of all male children under of the age of two.
(3) His ancestor was Esau whose descendants were the Edomites - historical enemies of God's chosen people, particularly after they had left Egypt.

The conflict continues today!

But check out Joanna, the wife of Chuza, who was Herod's steward. Jesus' power was so strong that he had Herod's steward as one of His disciples. Pulled her out of serving darkness and evil (when you serve evil, you MUST pay a heavy price) and brought her into His marvelous light. Who knows what evil this man had required of Joanna, but by the grace and mercy of Jesus, she was able and allowed to provide to God in the flesh! -- We serve an awesome God.

Grace and peace.
© 2006 Deacon Bill Reid
All Nations Baptist Church, Washington, DC