MARY MAGDALENE
Mary Magdalene, also known as Mary of Magdala, hailed from the town of Magdala on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Her journey in the Scriptures begins with a profound moment of healing. According to the Gospel of Luke, Mary was delivered from seven demons by Jesus (Lk 8:2). The number seven in biblical symbolism often represents completeness or perfection, underscoring the severity and totality of her affliction. This deliverance marked a dramatic transformation in her life, freeing her from immense suffering and the social stigma associated with demon possession, commonly perceived as a manifestation of sin or illness.
Devotion and Support
Following her healing, Mary Magdalene became a devoted disciple of Jesus. Her gratitude and commitment to Jesus were evident in her actions. Along with other women, she provided for Jesus and the apostles out of her own resources (Lk 8:3). This act of support underscores her dedication and the vital role she and other women played in sustaining Jesus’s ministry. Their contributions were not just financial but also personal, offering a strong community of support and care.
Witness to the Crucifixion
Mary Magdalene’s unwavering devotion is further highlighted by her presence at the crucifixion of Jesus. She, along with Jesus’s mother, Mary, and other women, stood by the cross, witnessing the agony and sorrow of His death. This moment of profound grief also demonstrated her steadfast loyalty and courage, as she remained close to Jesus even in the face of danger and despair.
Encounter with the Risen Christ
Perhaps the most significant aspect of Mary Magdalene’s story is her encounter with the risen Christ. On the morning of the third day after Jesus’s crucifixion, Mary and other women went to the tomb to anoint His body. Finding the tomb empty, they were told by an angel of Jesus’s resurrection. In the Gospel of John, Mary Magdalene is depicted as the first person to see the risen Jesus. Initially mistaking Him for the gardener, she recognized Him when He called her by name (Jn 20:14-16). This intimate and personal recognition underscores the deep connection between Mary and her Lord.
Commissioned to Share the Good News
After her encounter with the risen Jesus, Mary Magdalene received a divine commission to announce His resurrection to the disciples. Jesus instructed her to go and tell them that He had risen, making her one of the first apostolic witnesses to the resurrection (Jn 20:17-18). This moment not only affirmed her faith but also established her as a pivotal figure in the early Christian community. Her testimony was crucial in spreading the news of Jesus’s victory over death, anchoring the foundational truth of the Christian faith.
REFLECTION
Mary Magdalene’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of Jesus’s love and the profound impact of faith. Her journey from a tormented soul to a devoted disciple and witness to the resurrection exemplifies the redemptive grace available to all who seek Jesus. As Christians, we can draw several important lessons from her life:
1. The Power of Transformation: No matter the depth of our struggles or the weight of our past, Jesus offers healing and transformation. Mary’s deliverance from seven demons reminds us that nothing is beyond His redeeming power.
2. Dedication to Service: Mary’s support of Jesus’s ministry highlights the importance of serving and supporting the work of the Gospel. Our resources, time, and talents can significantly contribute to advancing God’s kingdom.
3. Witnessing and Proclaiming the Gospel: Like Mary, we are called to share the good news of Jesus’s resurrection. Her boldness in proclaiming what she had seen and heard encourages us to be fearless in our witness.
4. Faithful Presence in Suffering: Mary’s presence at the crucifixion teaches us the value of steadfastness and loyalty, even in the face of sorrow and suffering. Our faithfulness during difficult times can be a powerful testimony to others.
5. Recognizing Jesus in Our Lives: Mary’s recognition of Jesus when He called her by name reflects the personal nature of our relationship with Him. We are reminded to listen for His voice and to seek His presence in our daily lives.
Mary Magdalene’s legacy is one of hope, courage, and unwavering faith. As we reflect on her story, may we be inspired to deepen our commitment to Jesus, to serve others selflessly, and to boldly proclaim the resurrection, which is the cornerstone of our faith.