Luke 8:2

2 and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out…

You may also want to read: John 19:25; 20:1–18

I remember the day I fully understood what Mary Magdalene was saved from. She was once plagued by demons. Her mind, soul, and body were possessed by evil incarnate, darkness itself; they were living within her, controlling her actions, disposing her of her free will. It’s interesting that Mary is mentioned as having been plagued by seven demons. Scripturally, this number represents “completeness” or “wholeness,” implying that when the spirits dominated her the suffering was extremely severe. However, the evil spirits came to plague her, this we know––they met their Master in Jesus. He had the power to save her in a moment’s time––He dispelled the darkness without breaking a sweat! James 2:19 reminds us that even the demons believe in Jesus and His power and shudder; they know they are no match for Him!

It appears that no women in the Bible superseded Mary Magdalene in her utter devotion to the Master. Now in her right mind, she became one of the most devoted woman disciples of Christ. She gave her best to Him who had fully and eternally freed her from her bondage. She witnessed countless miracles, provided financial aid and comforting presence, and followed Him even to the Cross. She was among the last at the Cross to witness His death and the first at the garden tomb to witness the most important event in world history––the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Upon revealing Himself to Mary, the Lord commissioned her as the first herald of His Resurrection.

Jesus must have been so comforted by Mary’s consistent presence, devotion, and care! But it was only because He showed her so much more in saving not only her mind and body from the darkness, but her soul, forever marking her a disciple of Light. In the midst of her grief and sorrow at the loss of her Savior, Jesus called her by name, comforting her in a way that only He could. He will do the same for you!

Follow the SHINE Time devotional tool to dive deeper into today’s scripture!

Seek the Lord in prayer.

Highlight a characteristic of God.

Identify a truth about yourself or people.

Notice what the Holy Spirit is communicating to you.

Engage in the next action step. Think of a way to respond in obedience to what God has revealed to you today.