Thoughts on the Gospel of John (202) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Now the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. Then she ran and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and said to them, They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him.
John 20:1–2

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (202)
It is Sunday morning. Mary Magdalene, a woman Jesus had freed from seven demons, visits the tomb of her benefactor. She had been present at the crucifixion and burial of Jesus and had observed everything closely. The accounts of the other evangelists suggest that she didn’t come alone but was accompanied by some other women. But in our Gospel, the spotlight is on Mary Magdalene. Her attitude is exemplary for all who have come to know Jesus Christ as their Saviour.

The women have come to the tomb of Jesus to anoint His body according to Jewish custom. But things turn out differently than they expected: the tomb is open, and the deceased is no longer to be seen. Frightened and disappointed, Mary Magdalene runs away; she has to inform the leading disciples: Peter and – as we assume – John.

What has happened? Have the undertakers, under time pressure, moved the body of Jesus after placing it temporarily in the new tomb? No, Mary probably thinks that Jesus’ opponents might have had a hand in it. However, she doesn’t think of the possibility that Jesus could have been resurrected. But with what reverence she speaks of the deceased – He is still her Lord! Her whole heart is attached to Him, the One to whom she wants to remain faithful.

We can see how much God appreciates Mary’s love and faithfulness by the fact that He communicates this event to us in His Word.

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today’s reading: Job 34:16-37 · Acts 16:13-25