The NIV 365 Day Devotional

Mary Magdalene: A Follower of Christ

Mary Magdalene was one of Jesus’ followers. Luke writes that she had been cured of seven demons, and he lists her among the women who supported Jesus financially (Lk 8:2–3).

Mary was present with several other women disciples at the crucifixion of Jesus, along with John (Jn 19:25–27). She experienced the wrenching trauma of watching Jesus die. She was also at Jesus’ tomb on Easter morning. She found the tomb empty and told Jesus’ disciples, who ran to the tomb and confirmed what she told them.

Upon returning, Mary stayed near the tomb, weeping. Peering into the tomb, she saw two angels seated where Jesus had been laid. Then Jesus himself appeared to her. At first she didn’t recognize him, but her eyes were opened when he called her by name (Jn 20:16). Mary hurried to tell the disciples the good news: “I have seen the Lord!” (Jn 20:18). What a picture of the mutual tenderness and concern that Jesus and Mary Magdalene had for one another, that he would choose to appear to her first after his resurrection.

APPLICATION Mary had a difficult and painful past, but Jesus healed her. Jesus can heal us, too. God’s invitation is for us to be faithful followers of Jesus like Mary was, listening to his words and learning from him. Mary’s last action recorded in the Bible was her greatest: to share with the world the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection. God calls us to share the same Good News with the world today.

Taken from the NIV Application Bible.