Lessons to Take from Mary Magdalene at Jesus's Crucifixion and Resurrection

I'm writing this on one of the holiest days in the Christian religion—Easter. This post wasn't preplanned or strategic in any way. I had so many insights about Mary Magdalene's role in this holiday that I felt compelled to share them. So, here we go!

The Courage of Mary Magdalene

The first insight comes from Mary Magdalene's presence at the feet of Jesus during his death. Unlike the designated male apostles, Mary Magdalene and Mother Mary stayed with him. They witnessed the horrific end of someone they loved deeply. It took immense courage to be publicly associated with him during such persecution.

People could understand a mother remaining by her son's side, but Mary Magdalene made a bold statement. Her love and dedication to Jesus and his teachings were profound. She was willing to risk her own life to stand by him and share his messages.

This level of courage is extreme. I hope you never have to face such a situation. However, you might relate to a more moderate form of societal persecution for your beliefs. We've seen shunning, shaming, and even death for those who have been transparent about their truths throughout history. Even in modern times, the struggle continues.

Reflecting on Your Own Courage

Now, let’s bring this into a personal perspective. Can you identify times when you’ve hidden your true beliefs to avoid judgment? Are there moments when you’ve shied away from expressing what you love? Being honest with yourself is an act of courage. It can change your life in ways you never imagined.

This journey might stir up fear, but it can also be liberating. The rewards of embracing your truth are immeasurable.

Facing Grief Head-On

The second lesson I want to highlight is Mary Magdalene’s decision to follow Joseph and Jesus’ body to the burial site. She faced the reality of her grief instead of hiding from it. Like many, she could have gone home, cried behind closed doors, or pretended it wasn’t happening. Instead, she chose to witness it all.

This decision teaches us the importance of confronting our feelings. Mary Magdalene didn’t numb herself or disconnect from her emotions. One of her teachings emphasizes embodying our feelings.

Do I believe part of her motivation was to gain firsthand knowledge of his burial? Absolutely. I’m no theological scholar, but my intuition tells me that Mary Magdalene was tenacious. She had a grit and determination that drove her to face everything head-on.

Your Own Emotional Journey

Now, I invite you to reflect on your own life. Are there emotions or situations you’ve avoided addressing? Are you letting others shape your understanding instead of seeking your own?

Facing your feelings can be daunting, but it’s essential for personal growth.

The Significance of Mary Magdalene's Mission

The final point I want to explore is Jesus revealing himself to Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb. He entrusted her with the task of spreading the news of his resurrection. This moment feels incredibly significant. It’s often minimized in religious teachings, but it deserves our attention.

Jesus chose her for this mission. It wasn’t an accident. In a time when women were often overlooked in religious texts, he gave her this monumental responsibility.

Mary Magdalene witnessed a new version of the world—a fresh perspective on life and death. He entrusted her with the message, knowing she would share it with others.

Embracing Your Unique Mission

As you reflect on this, consider what new version of life is trying to emerge for you. What has the Universe given you to carry forward? What unique qualities do you possess that can serve as an extension of Source in this lifetime?

Mary Magdalene’s journey is a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to embrace our truths and share them with the world.

In closing, I encourage you to explore your own path. What truths are waiting for you to acknowledge? What messages are you meant to share? Embrace your journey with the same courage that Mary Magdalene displayed. You have the power to transform your life and the lives of others.

Let’s embark on this journey together!