Resurrection

VOTD.03.22.16 Magdalene’s Devotion

The disciples went back to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying.  John 20:10,11

Last time I wrote about my interest in Mary who was call Magdalene. What was it about her that Jesus decided to appear to her first after His resurrection? He sent angels to appear to others, but He, Himself, appeared to her first.

And while we’re on the subject, don’t believe everything you see in the movies: the structure of the text where Magdalene is talked about in the Gospels makes it a near certainty that she was older than Jesus’ mother, Mary. Her relationship with Jesus wasn’t a youthful, romantic infatuation as some movies and dramas suggest. (more…)

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VOTD.03.21.16 “I’m BA-aaaack”

Jesus traveled through towns and villages, preaching the Good News about the Kingdom of God. The twelve disciples went with him, and so did some women who had been healed of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (who was called Magdalene), was one of them; from her seven demons had been driven out. Luke 8:1,2

It always surprises me when I consider Mary Magdalene. Relatively little is said about her in the Bible, yet Jesus chose her to be the first person to whom He revealed Himself after His resurrection. Her testimony (story) graphically shows how those who claim to love Jesus—those who have followed His teachings, have lived in intimacy with Him, and are eye-witnesses of His miracles—can respond to Him in two totally different ways.

The difference goes deeper than (more…)

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VOTD.03.08.16 Believe in Me

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.” John 11:25,26

There is life after death (1 Cor 15:19). The Bible is unequivocal about that. This truth gives us a faith that takes us beyond the grave. Resurrected bodies, worshiping Jesus for ever and ever. Nonetheless, the Gospel is not waiting for our physical deaths in order to kick into action. In the Gospel, there is a message of life after death that applies to this life, today.

There is life after the death of a loved one in this life. There is life after the death of a job in this life. There is life after the death of your dream, your finances, a treasured relationship (more…)

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