Lent has been a journey through the Passion story, reflecting on those who stood at pivotal moments of faith, fear, and revelation.

Now, in this final week, we witness the dawn of something entirely new—the resurrection of Jesus, seen first by Mary Magdalene.

Mary’s devotion to Jesus was unwavering. She followed Him in life, stayed near Him in death, and was the first to encounter Him risen. 

While the male disciples hid in fear, she went to the tomb before sunrise, determined to honour Jesus despite the risks. Overcome with sorrow, she did not recognise Him at first—until He called her by name.

Her story is one of faith, recognition, and calling. She arrived at the tomb in grief but left in glory, entrusted with the most profound message in history: Jesus is risen!

Week 6: Mary Magdalene – From Grief to Glory

📖 John 20:11,16 – "Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying... Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward Him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabboni!’ (which means ‘Teacher’)."

Mary Magdalene is mentioned more than any other woman in the Gospels apart from Jesus' mother, indicating her deep connection to His ministry. Luke 8:2 tells us that Jesus had healed her from seven demons, freeing her from suffering and changing her life forever.

In gratitude, Mary followed Jesus, supporting His ministry and standing by Him when others turned away. She witnessed His crucifixion, saw where He was buried, and, before dawn on the third day, went to the tomb to anoint His body.

This was a bold act of love and courage. A woman alone, in a city on high alert, could have faced great danger—especially as a known disciple of Jesus. Yet, her devotion was greater than her fear.

When she saw the empty tomb, grief overwhelmed her. Even when angels appeared, she still did not understand what had happened. It was only when Jesus spoke her name that she recognised Him.

That moment changed everything.

From sorrow to joy, from despair to hope, from grief to glory—Mary became the first witness to the resurrection and was given a mission: to go and tell the disciples.

Her story reminds us that even in our moments of deepest sorrow, Jesus is near. Sometimes, we do not recognise Him at first, but He calls us by name, inviting us into new life, renewed hope, and greater purpose.

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