After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means. (Luke 8:1-3)

Another translation offers, "proclaiming and preaching the kingdom of God." The Greek is kerusso (proclaim) and euaggelizo (good news announced).

The language suggests a form and function none of us have experienced. To kerusso was to act as an official - usually royal - herald.

Before the printing press or modern media the arrival of a royal herald was a significant moment. We were at war or an heir had been born or taxes were to be increased. Something had happened requiring an official announcement.

In the Iliad we read, "The king dispatched his heralds (keryx) with commands to range the camps and summon all the bands: the gathering hosts the monarch's word obey." (Book II, 29)

Jesus, the twelve, and the women were ranging the villages of Galilee acting as heralds for the arrival of the kingdom of God.

Above is a vase painting of Hermes, herald of the Greek gods, carrying his kerykeion symbol of office.