Mark 16:9-20
“When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom He had driven seven demons.”
Again, a woman has the privilege of first seeing the risen Lord!
Jesus healed Mary and she responded with devotion to Him. Now He appears to her. And it this woman who first announces the good news to the others!
But they did not believe her!
When Jesus appeared later to two other people, the disciples did not believe their report either.
Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven, as they were eating, and he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen Him after he had risen.
The women who followed and served Jesus provide the greatest examples of persistent devotion. We are grateful for their examples of loyalty and faith.
Today we continue to be most encouraged by women of faith who often quietly and humbly serve. Listening daily to the voice of the Teacher! Their lives speak eloquently for Him.
Today, as we close our study of Mark’s Good News, may we all follow their example and heed the parting words of the Teacher:
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whosoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whosoever does not believe will be condemned.”
Mary received a great blessing to be th first to see Jesus. Many have speculated as to why. Maybe it is because she had the heart to believe moreso than any other.
ReplyDeleteAnd as Denny pointed out, many today continue to set an example for men in quiet service, with open hearts and minds, and with a strong dedicationto the Teacher.
In many ways, the women out do us men in their dedication and devotion to the Teacher, the Son, the Christ.
Think abut this, men. Watch and learn and let the examples inspire us to follow closer!