Opening
Being misunderstood can be painful. Saint Mary Magdalene is often described with claims the Gospels never make about her. The clear story in Scripture is even more beautiful: she was a faithful disciple and a bearer of the Good News.
The story
Luke's Gospel says that Jesus freed Mary Magdalene from seven demons. Scripture does not explain that condition, so we should not guess what illness she had or what wrong she had done. After being healed and freed, Mary traveled with Jesus and other women and used her resources to support his mission.
When Jesus was crucified, many disciples fled in fear, but Mary stayed nearby. She saw where he was buried. Early on the first day of the week, she came to the tomb and found the stone moved away. She told Peter and the other disciple, then returned and stood weeping near the tomb. John's Gospel says that the risen Jesus met her and sent her to tell the disciples.
The Gospels do not say that Mary Magdalene was the unnamed sinful woman in Luke 7, nor do they identify her as Mary of Bethany. Some later traditions combined these people, but this lesson keeps to what the Gospels clearly say. Because Mary carried the news of the Resurrection to the apostles, Church tradition honors her as the apostle to the apostles.
Suggested reading: Luke 8:1-3; Matthew 27:55-61; John 19:25 and John 20:1-18.
Virtue
Mary Magdalene remained faithfully present even in grief. She also did not keep the good news to herself, but quickly carried hope to others.
How can you stay beside someone who is sad or lonely without needing to say very much?
Today's action
Send sincere encouragement to someone who is sad, or tell your family about one good thing you received today.
Prayer
Risen Lord Jesus, help me remain faithful in difficulty, stay close to those who grieve, and courageously bring hope to others. Amen.
References
Path progress
Saint Mary Magdalene: Bearer of good news
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