There were also women looking on from a distance; among them were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome. These used to follow him and provided for him when he was in Galilee; and there were many other women who had come up with him to Jerusalem.

-Mark 15:40-41

The ministry of presence is an amazingly important gift. Having the willingness and desire to be there with awareness, compassion, empathy, and support is faithful. Being present is how unlikely heroes thrive in the world today and it is most definitely evident in the first followers of Christ.

The female disciples of Jesus showed up. Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, Salome, as well as “many other women” were there. These were women whose names don’t show up in the first church charter of 12 but were tirelessly present in ways that supported Jesus in his ministry.

The women supported Jesus financially and with food, lodging and other gestures of kindness for hospitality was an underrated skill of discipleship. They were with him in those most vulnerable moments like Jesus’ death and burial when it would have been easier and safer to keep distant (Matthew 28:1-8 is our text for Sunday).

In our worship we will explore some interesting questions about the relationship Jesus may have had with the disciples who followed him, as well as the way their mothers came together in ministry as well. We center our thoughts around the ways we are showing us as Christ’s living presence in the world and continue to encourage and support each other as we live into our calling and purpose to serve God and community.

I look forward to worshiping with you either in person or on YouTube this Sunday.

Brett