“Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: I have seen the Lord” John 20:18.

Mary Magdalene watched the horrifying crucifixion of her Savior, Jesus, as soldiers hammered spikes into his hands and feet and hung him to die a criminal’s death. Mary heard Jesus say, “It is finished” and her heart sank. She was confused and scared.

Before Jesus came into Mary’s life, it was filled with wild outbursts and raging moments of madness from complete demon possession. With divine authority and power, Jesus, the Son of God, drove out seven, terrifying demons, bringing light into her darkness and restoring sanity. She often sat at Jesus’ feet learning more of Him and became a devoted follower.

Her heart was now filled with love and gratitude for Jesus. When she heard Him speak of His impending death and His coming kingdom, she decided to buy precious ointment to prepare His dead body for burial. Instead, at Simeon’s feast, she decided to show her appreciation for him while he was alive by pouring the ointment over his head and feet. She cried as she kissed his feet, drying them with her hair.

Early Sunday morning, Mary anxiously ran to Jesus’ grave. She was first to arrive, and looked into the tomb. It was empty! While tears streamed down her face, she saw two angels sitting in the place where Jesus had lain.

One angel asked her why she was crying. She told him someone had taken Jesus’ body, and she didn’t know where to find it. Overcome with grief, Mary didn’t realize Jesus was standing near. She sensed someone there, but assumed it was the gardener. He asked her who she was looking for. It was not until Jesus called her by name that Mary recognized Him.

Jesus knows our name and wants us to seek Him as Mary did. In Jeremiah 29, He promises: “you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (v. 13)

Through Scripture, worship, and prayer, we may find a deeper connection to Him. He will walk with us through all our trials and struggles. Praise God we can live in the hope and power of His resurrection. “Jesus is alive and was dead and He is alive forevermore. Amen" (Rev. 1:18).