Listen to this devotion
Mary Magdalene — He Knows My Name!
Mary Magdalene’s Story: John 20:1–18
In the Word
Jesus said to her, “Mary” (John 20:16a).
Of the Word
Hearing your name in a busy airport or across a crowded room usually brings relief or pleasure. And for some, nothing is better than a phone call that begins with a cheery, “Hi, Mom!”
When Mary went to the tomb on that Sunday after the crucifixion of Jesus, she was in mourning. She believed that her master, her teacher, her healer, her friend was dead. Angels voiced their concern, and she tearfully explained, “I don’t know where His body is.” Turning away, she thought she saw the caretaker of the garden. The angels had no answers; perhaps he could help. And He did! He spoke her name, “Mary.” Tears evaporated. Mourning ended. Joy blossomed.
God’s promise showers us with the same joy Mary felt. “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine” (Isaiah 43:1b). Our God is alive. He knows us by name. He calls us His very own!
Walking with my Lord
Thank You, Lord, for giving me life, for redeeming me, for knowing my name. Forgive my fears and tears and help me live for You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Daughters of the King. Marcia Gomulka and Myrna Lou Meyer, authors. 28/34 ©2013 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers.
