Devotions on F.I.R.E. Year OneSample

Now when He rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom He had cast seven demons (Mark 16:9).

Why would Jesus’ first resurrection appearance be to Mary when her testimony wouldn’t be legally valid?

Jesus fulfills His own words about death and life. John writes, “I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again” (John 10:18). After Jesus defeats death He first manifests Himself to Mary. As a dedicated follower, she comes early to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body for burial (John 20:1). She is honored for faithfully following Jesus; however, a woman’s testimony isn’t considered valid according to the law of the land. (Observe how Paul doesn’t include Mary in his legal defense of Jesus’ resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15.) Yet the Lord honors Mary, who honors Jesus.

Employment Point: Loyally follow Jesus, who is no respecter of persons, to be richly rewarded.