I forgive you

Here is Mary of Magdala’s story…

As I'd already told you on the first day, when Jesus came to meet me, my life was totally restored. I could feel all the darkness leave me, and from then on, following Jesus was my new life. I couldn't be happier!

However, some fears still haunted me. Every time I saw a Roman soldier, memories of my past abuse would come to mind, and I feared it might happen again. I had an internal struggle to remain calm and trust Jesus.

But what really unsettled me was the time we met a demon-possessed man. It was normal for Jesus to heal and deliver many people (Matthew 4:24, NKJV), but I could feel the same darkness from my past in the atmosphere this time. It was a traumatic memory, and doubts tormented me...what if that darkness came back again?

For a moment, I thought that everything Jesus had done in me was just an illusion. Thoughts began to torment me, like, "Who are you fooling? Do you really think that a woman with a past like yours could follow the Messiah? It's no use...sooner or later, you'll fall back into darkness and put the Master to shame!"

I was so confused that I couldn't stand it any longer. Without saying anything to anyone, I left there to go back to the only place I knew: my old life in Capernaum. I didn't know what I was doing: fear and anxiety had taken hold of me. I didn't feel worthy of being with Jesus any longer.

After a few hours, Peter and Matthew found me. I was in a pitiful state, but they patiently persuaded me to return to the camp with them. I was so ashamed that I had run away, that I had relapsed into things from the past! I didn't know how to approach Jesus...I had utterly failed Him.

I finally found the strength to go to Him and ask for forgiveness. I had so many doubts about myself: I honestly didn't think I could measure up. His words encouraged and comforted me, but I was still so disappointed in myself! Finally, He said the one thing I needed to hear the most: "I forgive you." That was it! I just began to cry in His arms. I could feel His forgiveness flowing through me.

Because of Jesus' incredible love, I was restored, and I've learned to put the lies of darkness behind me. Now I know that I'm no longer who I was…I am a new person. The things of my old life have passed away, and now all things have become new through Him (2 Corinthians 5:17, NKJV).

My name is Mary of Magdala, and despite my mistakes, I am still chosen by Jesus.

Bible references: Matthew 4:23-25, 2 Corinthians 5:17

Perhaps you, too, have failed at times and have walked away from God in shame, but He is not ashamed of you. He is waiting with open arms to forgive and restore you. If you feel accused and condemned, simply come to Jesus and let Him renew you and flood you with His forgiveness.

You are Chosen to be a Miracle!

Christian Misch