What We Can Learn From Joanna

MANY people know that Jesus had 12 apostles. But they may not be aware that his disciples also included women who were closely associated with him.  Joanna was one of those women. -Matthew 27:55; Luke 8:3. 

What role did Joanna play in Jesus' ministry, and what can we learn from her example? 

WHO WAS JOANNA?

Joanna was "the wife of Chuza, Herod's man in charge."  Chuza may have been the steward of domestic affairs for Herod Antipas.  Joann was one of several women whom Jesus cure of their infirmities. Along with other women, Joanna traveled with Jesus and his apostles. -Luke 8:1-3. 

The Jewish rabbis taught that women should not socialize with men who were not their relatives, much less travel with them.   In fact, Jewish men were to say little to women. Disregarding such traditions, Jesus allowed Joanna and the other believing women to accompany his group.  

Joanna risked social disapproval by associating with Jesus and the apostles. All who set out with him had to be prepared to make adjustments in their everyday life.  Regarding such followers, though, Jesus said:  "My mother and my brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.' (Luke 8:19-21; 18:28-30)  Are you not encouraged to know that Jesus feels so close to those who make sacrifices in order to follow him? 

Next time: What We Can Learn From Joanna - SHE MINISTERED FROM HER BELONGINGS

From the Watchtower magazine