MARY MAGDALENE SAW JESUS
The Very Rev Canon Dr. Rebecca Nyegenye
Provost.
As we celebrate Christian Women Day the main historic Character is Mary Magdalene.
She was a prominent figure in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. She is mentioned several times in the Gospels as a devoted follower of Jesus who was present at his crucifixion and burial. She is also believed to have been the first witness to the resurrection of Jesus. Mary was a woman of strong faith who had been healed of seven demons by Jesus and her loyalty to him was unwavering. She was one of the few female disciples of Jesus and played an important role in the early Christian church. Her story serves as an example of faith and dedication, and she remains an important figure in Christianity today.
Mary’s had a desperate longing to be close to Christ and serve Him in any way. This determined how she lived her life, knowing that life is meaningless without Him. What Mary lived daily is the faith we all strive to achieve. She was so special and we may not fully understand why she chose that total focus on Christ; embedded in the extravagant story of Christianity. In Luke 8:2, the bible states, “After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out;..”
It is important to realize that Women in Jewish society did not typically carry important roles, which makes their involvement in Jesus’ ministry more radical than normal for the time they lived in. It is speculated by many Bible Scholars that Mary might have been involved in the provision of resources and other relevant support to the ministry of Jesus Christ. She may have been wealthy and all women in the Bible Define Magdala as a tower or castle.
Mary “the Magdalene” may have been connected with the industry of the town which acted as a means, enabling her to serve the Lord with her substance. Despite the association with wealthy and a high status of honour in society, she was struck by seven demons. This then is a wake up call to all ladies and a reminder that Christ has the power to bring freedom with the right connection and service to Him.
In conclusion, Mary Magdalene followed Jesus closely as a faithful disciple. She was among the women who sincerely supported the ministry of Jesus. In John 20, Mary Magdalene is seen as the first witness of the resurrected Lord. Sometimes women hide their problems behind the good jobs, money and level of society and good family appearance but today it is important for every christian woman to remember that all these are good but have no eternal value and blessings. Priority number one should be Jesus Christ who can sladies to give priority to Christ’s salvation and presence in life and then everything else can follow for His glory. This will lead to order instead of chaos in the families and every other aspect of life.
The Very Rev. Canon Dr. Rebecca Nyegenye,
Provost.