Counterfeit: Femininity — Thursday
JOHN 20:18
Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, ‘I have seen the Lord!’ Then she gave them his message. (NLT)
Two weeks ago, we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday. It is one of the year's highlights for me to get to worship Jesus with so many people at Easter because of the profound hope we’re celebrating! The fact that Jesus died for us, so that we could live without sin, and not only that but rose again so that we could spend eternity in heaven with him… it’s overwhelming to think about, quite honestly.
Interestingly, the first person to see Jesus after he walked out of the tomb and to tell others about it was a woman named Mary Magdalene. If you dive into scripture a bit, Mary was a follower of Jesus who traveled with him and his disciples. Early in his ministry, Jesus healed her of demon possession, and she devoted the next few years to learning from and following him. It’s no surprise then, that she visited the tomb where Jesus was buried after his crucifixion. What is surprising is that Jesus appears to her first and commands her to go and tell the disciples that He’s alive!
The Lord used so many men to evangelize and spread the gospel message throughout the Bible, but this passage (among others) shows us how he also chose to use women to spread that message in unique ways. As I read through this account, one of the biggest takeaways is that we are all called to do the same. Regardless of whether you are male or female, God has called each of us to spread the good news of Jesus to those around us, and He wants you to do that right where you are. You don’t have to work in a church to be in ministry. Your ministry may be your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, classmates, a stranger in line at the grocery, your mail carrier, or any other number of people! The beauty of the Great Commission is that God has called all those who follow Him to tell others about what He’s done. There are no special requirements or qualifications. Just love God and love people.
Mary understood this and eagerly went to the disciples to share the news. She was so overcome with joy that she couldn’t help but share! I want to be like Mary; so grateful for the hope Jesus has given me that I can’t help but tell people about it. That’s the call he has for each of us!
Thursday’s Reflection
Pray today that God would allow you to share the love He’s given you with those around you. If you don’t yet know who He is but would like to know more, we would love to talk with you and pray for you! Reach out to our Care Team today!