NAMED, BUT UNKNOWN - JOANNA

I can’t believe that Jesus began His earthly ministry with a pocket full of cash. And when Peter, Andrew, James, and John were called to join the Rabbi, they left behind their sources of income. Though they were broke, Jesus and His disciples trusted God to provide for their material needs.

But how? Jesus didn’t perform a miracle at every mealtime. “Gather around folks, and I’ll turn these rocks into steak and taters … or would you rather have spaghetti and meatballs tonight?” No. So how were their needs met?

Here’s the answer. God often moved in the hearts of the “named – but unknown” … like Joanna.

Jesus was “traveling from one town and village to another, preaching and telling the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and sicknesses: Mary, called Magdalene (seven demons had come out of her); Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward; Susanna; and many others who were supporting them from their possessions” (Luke 8:1–3).

“Mary, called Magdalene” had been plagued with demons before Jesus emancipated her. Susana, Joanna, and others had also been “healed of evil spirits and sicknesses.” Having been miraculously and mercifully transformed, they began “supporting (Jesus and His disciples) from their possessions.”

Joanna was married to a fella named “Chuza, Herod’s household manager” (Luke 8:3, ESV). Chuza was likely a man of considerable means, making it possible for Joanna to generously contribute to the material needs of her Lord. Almost unnoticed, these sacrificing servants labored in the background, making it possible for the Lord’s mission to move forward.

That’s not the only time we see Joanna in action. Having been rescued from sin, sickness, and shame, these mostly unseen servants steadfastly followed Jesus, serving Him to Calvary and beyond. After Jesus’ crucifixion, Jesus’ body was hastily buried. Following the Sabbath, “on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came to the tomb, bringing the spices they had prepared. Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women…” (Luke 24:1,10).

“… think on these things” (Philippians 4:8, KJV).