Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities.

Luke tells us that two groups followed Jesus: the Twelve and several women. Luke emphasizes that these people are “with him”. What does it mean to be with someone? Getting to know him more and more. To love more and more. To be with someone is to share his way of thinking and acting.

Luke also notes that the women following Jesus had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, adding that their gratitude led them not only to follow Jesus but also to support him financially. Having met Jesus and experienced his loving touch, they want to be with him.

What inspired them to approach Jesus in the first place was hearing his preaching and, perhaps, witnessing his healings of others. That is the pattern that is available to all of us at every Mass. Once again, we are faced with the biblical record of Jesus’ teaching, his compassion, and his goodness. We then share at Jesus’ table. There we are enabled to share intimately with the life that he offers.

Hopefully this also inspires us to support the work of Jesus through our own proclamation of the good news and our ability to touch Jesus in the poor and needy. We are all called to give the cup of cold water in his name, to comfort the afflicted, knowing that this is how we minister to Jesus in our world today.

How do I show my gratitude to Jesus for having been made whole by him, for having my sins forgiven, for having been touched so directly by his love?

Let Us Pray:

O loving Jesus, help me to be truly grateful for your having touched my life with your loving kindness. May I follow you with the dedication of the women who followed you in your lifetime.