Matthew opens his account of Jesus’ resurrection with faithful women. Matthew 28:1 Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to visit the tomb. [1] John was the only disciple at Jesus’ crucifixion (John 19:26). The rest were behind locked doors in fear. But the women were faithful. Matthew 27: 55 And many women who had come from Galilee with Jesus to care for him were watching from a distance. 56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary (the mother of James and Joseph), and the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee. [2]
These women even watched to see where they buried Jesus. Luke 23: 55 As his body was taken away, the women from Galilee followed and saw the tomb where his body was placed. 56 Then they went home and prepared spices and ointments to anoint his body. But by the time they were finished the Sabbath had begun, so they rested as required by the law.[3]
Overcoming Obstacles
Luke tells us that the women wanted to add spices and ointments to bury the Lord correctly. Matthew only tells us that they went out to visit the tomb. They would have observed the great stone rolled into place in front of the tomb on Friday evening. Pilate had also posted guards at the tomb at the leading priests’ request.
Even with these obstacles, the women left to visit the tomb at first light. Visiting the grave of a deceased friend then was much as it is now. It is a way to grieve and honor their memory. These women were brave enough to be present at the crucifixion and remained faithful to Jesus.
A Surprise at the Tomb
The women in our story responded to the voice of the Lord by obeying His guidance to go to Jesus’ tomb. God rewarded their obedience as they experienced a blessing they did not expect. God is full of surprises, and as we allow Him to guide us by His Holy Spirit, He unfolds unique gifts.
As we follow God and are willing to move forward despite obstacles, He empowers us and blesses our faithfulness. At the time, women were not allowed to be witnesses in court, but God allowed these faithful women to be the first to know of the Resurrection. He knew that He could trust them with His message.
These women are a model of faithfulness for us. They stayed close to Jesus to the end and were willing to overcome obstacles in their grief. Where is the Lord asking you to be faithful?
To learn more about these faithful women, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/jesus-resurrection
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.