"This Might Just Work Out!"
John 20:1-20
Easter
Mary Magdalene had been a hopeless mess. Luke 8:20 says that seven demons had been cast out from her. Seven being the number of completion, it's safe to say she was a total loss. From what we see of the tortured behavior of other demon plagued people, we can only imagine what she was like.
All we know is that Mary Magdalene served Jesus from the time of her deliverance on. Restoration became loyal service. She stayed by Jesus at his death and burial. She was in the first wave of visitors to his tomb after the Sabbath.
It was clear, Mary thought, that Jesus' body had been moved. That's what she told Peter. Peter and John ran to the tomb and confirmed Mary's story. And being men of action, they went off to figure off what to do next.
But Mary lingered; overcome no doubt with confusion and grief over her deliverer. She thought she was talking to a gardener; maybe a man who had moved the body. Perhaps he was backlit against the brightening eastern sky. All she knew was that she wanted to honor the man who healed her and she had to ask this stranger a question.
"Mary"
When Jesus called her name, Mary's world began to expand and heal still more! Jesus knows people personally. Mary doesn't see Jesus clearly but she knows it's him! I don't think any of us see Jesus clearly yet. Maybe he's as mysterious as that backlit man who may be on the maintenance staff. But when you know he knows you, Christ can come alive to you! As Paul said, "Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known (1Co.13:12b)."
Today we mark what Mary discovered.
Jesus lives.
Jesus delivers us from the sins and plagues in our lives.
Jesus is to be served. "As the Father sent me so I am sending you."
Open your eyes and hears! Scan your memory! You may find him calling your name.
Like Mary, days may start badly - but they just might turn out alright!
