She Was Every Bit His Disciple

"It was not a mere chance encounter. Christ having already left the tomb, must have purposely concealed Himself from all His disciples save the one whom He wanted to see and comfort."  - George Venabbes

"Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils" (Mark 16:9).

No matter how many times I read this passage, I find it inspiring that Mary Magdalene would be the first to whom the resurrected Jesus Christ appeared. Being a woman in an ancient, male-dominated culture had to have made things difficult for her. Even so, she never abandoned Christ.

She was able to witness first-hand many of the proceedings leading up to, and including, the crucifixion. One can only imagine the agonizing, emotional roller-coaster she experienced while witnessing the bogus trial of Jesus, and the events that followed.

How her heart heart must have dropped when she heard Pilate announce Christ's death sentence. And, the sights and sounds of the angry crowd as they beat and humilated him must have tormented her deeply. Yet, through all of this, her love and devotion to Jesus remained steadfast and true.

And, when the hour of Jesus' crucifixion arrived, she was one of the women who positioned themselves close enough to offer comfort. Some might say that since Jesus was the Son of God he wouldn't need anyone else. However, Christ was just as human as you and I. As such, it would make complete sense that on the verge of death, human compassion and company would be a welcomed solace.

That a woman would be the one to whom he would first appear after his resurrection says a lot about Christ. As the earliest witness to his resurrection, she was sent by Jesus to tell the others (John 20:11-18). Due to the lack of any hard scriptual evidence, we can only speculate at other aspects of Mary Magdalene's life.

One thing which we can be certain of is her love and devotion to Jesus. When she went to the sepulchre early that morning, Mary went with no other intentions than to reverently seek and touch her Lord one last time (John 20:1). Soon after, her faith was reassured as Jesus stood before her (John 20:16,17; Mark 16:10).

Thus, when approaching Christ, we should follow Mary's example. Whether it be in time of need or gratitude, we should seek Him earnestly in faith, and perseveringly in heart. Mary Magdalene was every bit a disciple, and her love for Jesus Christ clearly manifests this.

Scripture: Hebrews 11:1; Hebrews 11:6; Ephesians 2:8-9; Luke 7:50; 1 Peter 1:8-9

Prayer: Dear Lord, may my faith be full and unreserved, joyful and humble; and let it surrender to the testimony of the Holy Spirit, for I believe in You. Amen

Have a blessed Monday!

Brandi