I Have Seen the Lord
John 20:18 ESV
18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her.
Source:
https://www.bible.com/verse-of-the-day/JHN.20.18/106630?version=111
ESV: Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her.
NIV: Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.1
NKJV: Then Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that He had spoken these things to her.
Understanding the Context
John 20 recounts the resurrection of Jesus and His appearances to His disciples. Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus, goes to the tomb early on the first day of the week and finds it empty. She runs to tell Peter and John, who come and see the empty tomb for themselves.
While Peter and John leave, Mary stays at the tomb, weeping. Jesus appears to her, but she doesn't initially recognize Him. When He calls her by name, she realizes it's Jesus and exclaims, "Rabboni!" (Teacher!). Jesus then commissions her to go and tell the disciples that He has risen.
This verse captures the heart of Mary Magdalene's message: "I have seen the Lord!" She is the first witness to the resurrection, and she eagerly shares this incredible news with the disciples.
The Significance of Mary's Testimony
Mary Magdalene's testimony is significant for several reasons:
She was a woman
In that culture, women were not typically considered reliable witnesses. Yet, Jesus chose Mary to be the first witness to His resurrection, demonstrating that He values the testimony of all believers, regardless of their social standing.
She was a devoted follower
Mary had been a faithful follower of Jesus throughout His ministry. She had witnessed His miracles, heard His teachings, and stood by Him at the cross. Her testimony carries weight because of her deep devotion to Jesus.
She was the first witness
Mary Magdalene was the first person to see the risen Jesus and proclaim His resurrection. This makes her testimony foundational to the Christian faith.
Applying This to Our Lives
How can we apply this verse to our daily lives?
Be a witness to the resurrection
Just as Mary Magdalene shared her experience with the disciples, share your own testimony of how Jesus has changed your life.
Proclaim the good news
The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It is the ultimate victory over sin and death. Boldly proclaim this good news to the world.
Live in the light of the resurrection
The resurrection of Jesus gives us hope and new life. Live each day in light of this reality, knowing that death has been defeated and that we have eternal life in Christ.
Trust in the power of the resurrection
The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to us today. Trust in this power to transform your life and overcome any challenge.
Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. May I be a faithful witness to this incredible truth and live in the light of His victory over sin and death.
Amen.
Additional Thoughts
Mary Magdalene's testimony is a reminder that God can use anyone to accomplish His purposes.
The resurrection of Jesus is a historical event that has transformed the world.
When we believe in the resurrection, we receive new life in Christ.
I hope this devotional has been helpful. May you be inspired by Mary Magdalene's testimony and boldly proclaim the good news of the resurrection.
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Jesu
A woman of faith passionate about inspiring and motivating women in their walk with God. Explore topics on cultivating a deeper relationship with God, overcoming challenges with faith, and discovering purpose and strength in Christ. Join Jesu on a journey of faith and be empowered to live boldly and confidently as a woman of God.
Exodus
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