One More Mary
20 Apr 2023Little Devotionals (Ann)
“Women of the Bible” series by Ann Little
Of all the Marys in the New Testament, Mary Magdalene is mentioned most often. Magdala was a place name, so she was actually the Mary from Magdala. One verse offers an insight as to the reason for her devotion to Jesus: Luke 8:2 “and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out.” Jesus had healed her from a tortuous life controlled by seven demons. I cannot imagine the horror of that kind of life, nor the incredible relief, freedom and joy at being healed. No wonder we see her faithfully following after Jesus.
Of all the Marys in the New Testament, Mary Magdalene is mentioned most often. Magdala was a place name, so she was actually the Mary from Magdala. One verse offers an insight as to the reason for her devotion to Jesus: Luke 8:2 “and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out.” Jesus had healed her from a tortuous life controlled by seven demons. I cannot imagine the horror of that kind of life, nor the incredible relief, freedom and joy at being healed. No wonder we see her faithfully following after Jesus.
***** (continued)
She may have witnessed more of the life of Jesus than the gospel writers record, but here is what they do tell us:
- She was one of the women who cared for Jesus’ needs, supporting him and his disciples from her own funds. Matthew 27:55-56, Luke 8:2-3
- She was at the cross. John 19:25
- She saw where Jesus was buried. Mark 15:47
- She was one of the first women to visit the tomb. Matthew 28:1
- She was the first to see the risen Christ. Mark 16:19; John 20:10-18
And of course she wanted to hug him and at least clasp his feet in devotion. Instead he gave her an important assignment: “Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” Imagine the joy of being able to share this wonderful news with the disciples. They did not believe her at first, but were curious enough to investigate themselves and confirm what she had said.Women were barred from learning from a rabbi, but Jesus (as we saw from the story of Martha) welcomed women to learn from him.
Jesus knows our names and welcomes us to learn from him. He invites us: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30. Let us faithfully follow after Jesus. Who knows what assignment he may have for us!