By Andrew Williams
“After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.” – Matthew 28:1 (NIV)
“When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body.” – Mark 16:1 (NIV)
Good morning fellow disciples.
Matthew 28:1 and Mark 16:1 both describe Mary Magdalene, along with other women, making their way to Jesus’ tomb early on Sunday morning. In Matthew, they go “to look at the tomb,” and in Mark, they are bringing spices to anoint Jesus’ body. These passages showcase their unwavering devotion and their desire to honor Jesus, even after His death. Despite the crushing disappointment of the crucifixion, they faithfully return to the tomb, driven by love and a sense of duty. Their faithfulness, although born out of grief, sets the stage for the miraculous events of the resurrection.
As a disciple, you may face moments when your hopes are dashed, your dreams are shattered, or your expectations are unmet. You may be tempted to give up or to walk away from your faith. Mary Magdalene’s example reminds you that faithfulness in the face of disappointment is often the pathway to experiencing God’s greatest miracles. Continue to show up, to serve, and to honor God, even when you don’t see immediate results.
This week, identify an area in your life where you are tempted to give up or to lose hope. Make a conscious decision to remain faithful, to continue serving God, and to trust that He will work all things together for your good.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, strengthen my faith and help me to remain faithful, even when my hopes are dashed or my dreams are shattered. Give me the courage to show up, to serve, and to honor You, even when I don’t see immediate results. Help me to trust in Your power and Your plan for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
