Mary Magdalene’s devotion at the tomb shows that those who cling to Christ with steadfast love receive the sweetest privileges from His hand. While Peter and John went home, Mary stayed. She didn’t know where Jesus was or what had happened to Him, but love kept her near the last place she had seen Him. True devotion always stays near the One it loves.
Her persevering love was richly rewarded. She saw the angels the others missed. She heard their comforting words. Most of all, she became the first witness of the risen Christ—the first to see Him, to hear His voice, and to speak with Him.
This account is written for our learning. Not all believers have the same measure of faith or courage, but those who love Christ most deeply and cling to Him most closely will enjoy the deepest fellowship with Him. As Mary waited on the Lord, He revealed Himself to her. So He does for all who seek Him with earnest love.
To know Christ is good; to know that you know Him is even better.
Prayer:
Risen Lord Jesus, incline my heart to stay close to You as Mary Magdalene did at the tomb.
Give me a love that lingers, a faith that waits, and eyes to recognize Your presence.
Speak my name, calm my fears, and fill me with the joy of knowing You are alive and near.
Empower me to cling to You above all and to follow wherever You lead.
Amen.
- These thoughts are distilled from J.C. Ryle’s “Daily Readings from All Four Gospels” edited by Robert Sheehan, Evening Reading for November 26.
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