Mary Magdalene was loyal, all the way to the Cross. She stood with Jesus in His last excruciating moments. She wouldn’t abandon Him. Her search continued the next morning at the garden tomb. The story unravels in John 20:1-18--how Mary came in the darkness, wept at His tomb, searched for her Savior, and turned toward His voice. Scripture promised her, and each of us: “When you search for Me, you will find Me, if you seek Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13 NRSVCE) The chronology of Mary Magdalene’s story can aid us in our search. Both her attitude of heart and actions and Jesus’ response, display some beautiful truths:

When it is dark, He appears and brings light. Mary came alone, bravely searching. Jesus was watching. Likewise, He watches us in our efforts to reach Him, even when unsure of what we’re looking for at times. “It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you.” (Pope John Paul II) In the dark times of your life, He will appear bringing light—truth.

When we weep, He appears. to console us. Jesus heard the cries of Mary’s heart and arrived by her side. He will hear yours, too.

 
When we turn around, we will see Jesus. Mary turned toward the familiar voice, and Jesus stood before her. When we stop—turn-- repent—we shall find what we are searching for: Jesus. “It is God to whom and with whom we travel, and while He is at the end of our journey, He is also at every stopping place.” (Elisabeth Elliot) Many times along our journeys, we must stop and turn.

When we are truly listening, we will hear His voice. Mary was alone, in the quiet morning, able to hear Jesus calling her name. Reject worldly voices, turning toward His voice; hear His words of mercy and of truth, stand in His loving gaze.

Jesus, I will seek You with all my heart. Amen.