John 20:11-18 – Mary Magdalene
The first thing these verses teach us is that those who love Christ most are those who receive the most privileges from Him. Mary won’t leave the tomb when Peter and John go away to their home. She doesn’t know where He is or what has become of Him, but her love for Him keeps her at the place where He last was. And her love reaps a rich reward. She is the first to see our Lord after He rises from the dead, the first to hear His voice, the first to talk to Him. As Christians we don’t all have the same abilities, but we can all love Christ. And Christ loves those who love Him.
Secondly, these verses show us that our worries, fears, and tears are often unnecessary. Mary doesn’t need to cry. Christ is right there with her, but she doesn’t see it. How often are we worried when we don’t need to be. Most of the things we’re afraid of never happen at all. We need to pray for patience and the eyes to see the presence of Christ and His good purposes in everything that happens.
Jesus gently reminds Mary that He is God as well as man. Much as she loves Him, she can’t keep Him on earth. Though His body is no longer with her, she and the other disciples will learn that the spiritual presence of Christ is with all true believers, even while He reigns in Heaven.
Finally, notice how kindly Jesus talks about His disciples. He calls them His brothers and has Mary tell them that His Father is their Father and His God their God. Just three days before these same disciples had all run away from Jesus. But Christ speaks as if all is forgiven and forgotten. Jesus Christ never changes. As He deals with His disciples, so He will deal with all who believe and love Him. When we wander, He brings us back. When we fall, He lifts us up. What an amazing love!
Questions
- What is Mary’s reward?
- How does Jesus treat His disciples?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks for the love of Christ to us.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.