The Road She Chose: The Committed

Mary Magdalene is one of the most well-known women in the New Testament. A devoted follower of Jesus. While much about her life remains a mystery, her unwavering faith and complete dedication to Jesus remains an important figure for Christians. Especially Christian woman. She was with Jesus through much of his ministry, to the end of his life on the cross and after his resurrection. How did Mary become so devoted to Jesus and why did she follow him with such dedication? Mary had 2 parts to her life story. Her past in which she was saved by Jesus and her future as a follower of Jesus.  

Let’s start with Part 1 of Mary’s story where her life was transformed from darkness into light. Mary was a Jewish woman from the fishing town Magla on the Western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Mary was tormented by seven evil spirits. Luke 8:2 tells us that Jesus casted out these demons, which signifies a powerful moment of healing and restoration in Mary’s life. Can you imagine the overwhelming gratitude she felt after being freed from torment? Jesus not only was her teacher, but he was her Savior who healed her from spiritual and emotional suffering. This was the turning point for Mary that reshaped her life. This is where she became committed to be a fierce and loyal follower of Jesus.

Part 2 of Mary’s story. One can only imagine what that moment was like, when Jesus looked upon Mary and healed her! The friendship formed between Jesus and Mary stems from her gratitude to him after he freed her. Mary became a woman of strong faith and her loyalty to Jesus was unwavering. From town to town, she traveled with Jesus and the disciples. Mary’s devotion grew as she continued to witness the teachings and miracles performed by Jesus. According to the Gospels, she was a part of a group of women who supported Jesus and His disciples financially (Luke 8:3).

Mary Magdalene’s commitment to Jesus became most evident during his crucifixion. While many of the disciples had scattered from fear, she remained at the foot of the cross along side Jesus’ mother, Mary. Her presence at such a painful moment shows the depth of her loyalty to Him. Her emotional and spiritual commitment to Jesus was evident in his final hours. She witnessed his suffering and watched his final breath (Mark 15:40). and then she saw where they laid him (Mark 15:47).

Because of the Sabbath restrictions, they did not have time to prepare the body for burial. Mary Magdalene and two other women left early the following morning and went to anoint Jesus’ body. When they arrived, they saw that the tomb was empty. Mary wept with grief; she thought someone had taken him away. Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned towards him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni,” which means Teacher (John 20:11-16). Trusting Mary, Jesus gave her a task. “Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God’” (John 20:17). This woman who had been consumed with demons is now the one chosen by Jesus to deliver this message of hope. She went to the disciples and delivered the same news that had changed her life to begin with: “I have seen the Lord!” (John 20:18). Mary Magdalene was the FIRST witness of our Risen Lord! Mary Magdalene’s role as the first to the resurrection is a testament to her unshakable commitment. While others doubted or feared, Mary’s devotion led her to seek Jesus even in His absence, making her the one chosen to carry the message of hope to the world.  

So, why was Mary Magdalene so committed to Jesus? The answer lies in the impact Jesus had on her life. Jesus wasn’t just a teacher or leader to Mary; He was a redeemer who saved her from a life of torment. Her devotion came from a place of deep gratitude, love, and personal connection. Mary’s commitment was also a reflection of how powerful Jesus’ teachings were and His ability to see us as we are. Jesus does not see us as sinners or outcasts, but He sees us as beloved children of God. Mary’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of Jesus’ presence and the depths of devotion that can arise when one encounters the grace of Jesus. 

Heavenly Father, I pray for the women of our church. I pray that as women, we will live each day in unwavering faith, gratitude and dedication to you Lord. That we commit ourselves to follow your son, Jesus. Help us to walk in His footsteps, to love others as He loved us, to serve with humility and live with compassion and grace. I ask that we be encouraged to be a witness and follow you all the days of our lives just like Mary Magdalene did. Amen