The Women Who Met JesusSample

Will Jesus Change Me?

We do not know a lot about Mary Magdalene’s background. We know that she’s from the city of Magdala (this is why she is called Mary Magdalene). We also know that when she came to Jesus, she was possessed by seven demons.

Unlike most of the people Jesus delivered from demons, Mary became a critical part of Jesus’ life. She was among many women who helped to support his ministry financially. She was present with His mother, Mary, at the crucifixion. She was the first person Jesus appeared to after rising from the dead.

It was not enough to be set free from her bondage; Mary embraced the new identity she received from her deliverance. She was no longer the woman who was possessed by demons. She was Mary Magdalene, the disciple of Jesus.

This is true of anyone who follows Jesus. They can see themselves in a new light. Paul explains it to the Corinthians this way, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here” (2 Corinthians 5:17)!

Our new identity transforms the way we view ourselves. Like Mary, we are a completely new creation. Our identity is no longer tied up in our past mistakes, sins, or experiences. What is truly transformational about this perspective is how it changes the way we see others!

Paul goes on to tell the Corinthians that now that they have a new identity. They have now been entrusted with the message of Jesus. Once you experience the joy of being set free, you want to see others liberated, too. This is why Mary celebrated her freedom by throwing herself wholeheartedly into Jesus’ ministry.

Reflection: What glimpses of your new identity have you seen in your life? Have you witnessed a changed life in a friend or family member? Take time to encourage them with the changes you have seen.