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

Sometimes we find there are those who help you “carry the load” in ministry. My mom and dad had these types of people supporting them in ministry. We received free auto care, pizzas, clothes, and various other things. They helped finance the gospel work through monthly checks. The women in this passage did the same thing with Jesus. They were in important societal positions, and they gave money to Jesus and the disciples so they could focus on the ministry of serving the people and preaching the truth about God. It is fun to give sacrificially, and as a businessman I have been able to do this frequently. Sometimes I set up contests with God. I lay out a % of a bonus I want to give and work hard and watch God deliver. And he really does. It is so important to have ministry funders. These people are involved in the ministry to a lesser degree in the actual work, but work in occupations to fund the full-time work of others. What a blessing ministry funders are! And they encourage those who work full-time in ministry to work all the harder for God’s kingdom.

Lord, thank you for those who fund ministry. I appreciate them so much and the role they play in advancing your kingdom. I have enjoyed, in some minor ways, times when I get to help fund ministry. May my wallet be open to fund the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ always!