From A Distance

Today's Reading: Matthew 25-28

Many women were also there, looking on from a distance; they had followed Jesus from Galilee and had provided for him. Matthew 27: 55 NRSV

These women were on the periphery, yet they provided two essential elements for Jesus. First, there money helped his ministry. I imagine they were all wealthy in their own right and made sure that Jesus and his followers, although not rich, had food, clothing and shelter. Second, these women were the witnesses to the crucifixion. Remember that the men had all run away. It was the women, standing at a distance, who kept an eye on the awful death of their friend and teacher. Without their witness, would the writer of Matthew known what happened at the cross?

You and I are also important to Jesus. It is through our provision, i. e. tithes, that help Jesus' ministry continue today. It is our witness about what Jesus sacrificed for us that helps others know about Jesus. And we, too, stand looking from a distance: the distance of time.

God, you ask us to provide and to witness. May we be essential to your kingdom now and for always. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims