3 minute read
Biblical Profiles
MARY MAGDALENE
As leaders, being loyal in both good and troubling times takes intentionality, love, and perseverance. If you have ever walked with a friend through an illness, divorce, or even a financial crisis, you recognize the dedication and resolve it takes to meet someone else’s needs. We see this in the New Testament with Mary Magdalene. She understood all that was necessary to support her friend and rabbi, Jesus, in both triumphant and devastating circumstances. And the love that she poured out was multiplied and lavished back on her.
We don’t know much about Mary Magdalene before she met Jesus. What we do know, however, is that she was broken without Him—just like the rest of us. Mary from Magdala—a small fishing town on the west shore of the Sea of Galilee—was blessed by Jesus when He exorcised seven demons from her. We can imagine the freedom she received drew her to remain by Jesus’ side. Luke tells us that as Jesus and His disciples went from one town to another teaching, Mary and several other women traveled with them and helped support them out of their own means. (Luke 8:3 NIV)
It seems that Mary gave up everything for Jesus, including her time, her home, and her money. She spent her days caring for Jesus and His disciples and working with other women to provide what she could. Yet, her sacrifice was met with blessings! Mary’s life of loyalty led to her own spiritual growth. And serving her Lord in obedience alongside other women provided a sisterhood with strong bonds and, no doubt, deep friendships.
Mary grew as she spent her days tending to Jesus’ needs and sitting at His feet. And the strength our Lord equipped her with allowed her to serve Him during His most difficult season.
Most of what we read about Mary Magdalene in the Bible comes toward the end of each gospel. We witness her presence in Matthew 27-28, Mark 15-16, Luke 23-24, and John 19-20 – in the heart-wrenching recounting of Jesus’ crucifixion. When Jesus needed the most love, many ran away and denied Him. But Mary remained faithfully attentive.
Matthew 27:55 tells us that as Jesus hung painfully on the cross, Mary was there among the other women, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. (NIV)
In times of difficulty, the nearness of a friend or loved one can make all the difference. Mary Magdalene had spent much time caring for Jesus and the disciples’ physical needs—preparing food, making sure they had a place to rest, and maybe even washing their clothing. In Jesus’ last days, there was little left to do. That is when Mary learned that her presence was enough.
You may understand if you have sat by the bedside of a dying loved one. In those moments, the touch of a hand, a gentle voice, and the display of love are precious gifts that outweigh any grand gesture.
Julie Jenkins
WWL co-CEO
julie@womenworldleaders.com
