THE WOMEN WERE THERE
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Some women were there, watching from a distance, including Mary Magdalene, Mary (the mother of James the younger and of Joseph), and Salome. They had been followers of Jesus and had cared for him while he was in Galilee. Many other women who had come with him to Jerusalem were also there.
Mark 15:40-41 NLT
TODAY’S THOUGHT
Mark takes two verses of the crucifixion narrative to list the names of three women and then make a point to note there were “many other women” who “were also there.” First, Mark names Mary Magdalene. She was from Magdala, a village on the Seas of Galilee’s western shore. Jesus had delivered her from demonic possession in Luke 8. The second woman was Mary the mother of James and Joseph—evidently these sons were individuals the early believers in Rome would have known well because there is no explanation of who they were. Next, Mark names Salome. Her name only appears in Mark’s gospel. According to Matthew’s gospel (27:56) Salome is the mother of the disciples James and John. Bible scholars believe she was probably the sister of Jesus’ mother who is not mentioned by Mark. Mark points out that these women had been followers of Jesus and served His material needs. They were servants to the end even being present for His death. I believe Mark is mentioning these women as eyewitnesses of Jesus crucifixion because they would also be eyewitnesses of His burial (Mark 15:47) and His resurrection (Mark 16:1-8). Perhaps Mark is wanting his readers to know the important role women played in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. In the early Church and throughout Church history women have had significant roles. The gospel writers elevated women to equality with men. Paul tells us that in Christ Jesus there is neither male nor female (Galatians 3:8). Jesus has made us one and has a place for everyone in the kingdom of God. Every human being has a place to serve and a place to grow in God’s kingdom.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Holy Spirit help me to find my place of service and growth.
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