August 18, 2014

John 20: 18. Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.

Mary Magdalene went to the tomb before daylight and saw that the stone was rolled away from the opening. She went to get Peter and John. They went into the tomb and saw the discarded grave cloths. She was standing outside crying when she spotted 2 angels. Then Jesus was behind her, but she thought it was a gardener. Once she recognized him, he told her that he had to go. He hadn't ascended yet, but he would be back later to see the disciples, and she should go tell them.

 What a scene! We have the open tomb, the running disciples, the crying woman, angels and the resurrected Jesus! Mary Magdalene must have been in shock! I like visualizing everything that led to this verse, and I like visualizing the scene around her as she spoke to the disciples. The new covenant has begun! The incredible sadness and loss are replaced by hope. That hope is still with believers 2000 years later.

 Prayer: Lord, I give You praise for the hope Christians feel today based on the hope of the disciples and of Mary Magdalene. She brought them and us the eternal message that Jesus is always with us. I need him and You to become the best me I can be. Guide my life to Your glory. Amen