The Special Thank You Gift

By Mary Vee
Luke 8

From Luke's Journal 

Photo by Mary Vee. View down to the Sea of Galilee from
the Mountain where it is believed Jesus was at this time.
Capernaum is down and to the left by the shore.

My name is Luke, I am a disciple of Jesus. The other disciples are here with me as well. 

You may imagine these disciples to be the close twelve men Jesus chose as His disciples.  

Actually, many more followed Jesus. Some could not devote all their time and money for traveling and meals. They came to hear Jesus when they could. Some joined us when we visited their village and nearby cities. Others took a leave from their work and spent weeks or more with us.

These followers had seen Jesus help the blind to see, the lame to walk, heal sicknesses, and cast out demons. Some of these followers were the ones healed by Jesus. 

The last time I visited with you, we had supper at a Pharisee's home. You can scroll down to read that story. The Pharisee was not happy about what Jesus did there. The next day we left the city. Jesus told us we would travel to each city and tell them the good news about the kingdom of God. 

We became very busy, too busy to cook or buy food. 

A few women who had been healed by Jesus joined as followers. They listened to Him speak about the kingdom of God. They listened to his teachings. As a special thank you gift to Jesus they devoted their money and lives to HIs work.

At meal time, these women brought food to Jesus and we twelve disciples. When there wasn't a place for them to cook, they bought food in nearby villages. Because of these women we had food.

Their kindness overwhelmed all of us. These women followers were: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had come out. Joanna, the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod's household. Susanna, and many more.

Jesus never once sent any of them away like some teachers who thought ill of women. He answered their questions, and welcomed them with the other disciples.

Truly God sent these women to join us in following Jesus, and I am thankful.


Jesus said we will continue visiting villages tomorrow. 

 Come back to read the next story.

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sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.