December 22. Mary Magdalene
J.R. Miller illustrates through Mary Magdalene's story how deep devotion and yearning for Christ can still be met with moments of not recognizing His presence, urging believers to open their eyes and hearts to His comforting nearness.
In this biographical sermon, J.R. Miller explores the poignant story of Mary Magdalene, highlighting her deep devotion to Jesus and the tender moment of her not recognizing Him after His resurrection. Miller draws spiritual lessons about the challenges believers face in recognizing Christ's presence during times of sorrow and encourages a posture of hope and openness to divine comfort. Through vivid illustrations, the sermon invites listeners to look beyond their grief and embrace the nearness of Jesus.
Text
"At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus." John 20:14
The story of Mary Magdalene is one of very tender interest. Jesus had wrought for her a very wonderful deliverance, casting out the seven demons which possessed her. From that time, her devotion to Him was such that she followed Him wherever He went, ministering to Him. She was one of those who watched by His cross and tomb, and came early to do honor to His body. In return for her loving devotion, Jesus appeared first to her in the morning He arose.
But when she saw Him, she did not know Him, though her heart was crying out for Him with intense yearning. As she stood talking with the angel, she heard a step behind her, and turned, and there Jesus stood. Yet she did not recognize Him, though she loved Him so much, and though her heart was hungering for Him. She was thinking of Him as dead, and she did not know Him when He stood before her alive. Another reason she did not know Him was, that her eyes were so full of tears, that she could not see Him. Many a time it is the same with us: we need Christ, and our hearts are crying out for Him. Yet when He comes to us — we do not know Him, and therefore fail to receive comfort from His presence.
There is a picture which represents a mother in deep distress; yet close by her is an angel bending over her to comfort her, his fingers touching at the same time the strings of the harp in his hands. But she is so absorbed in her own grief that she neither sees the angel, nor hears his celestial music. So her heart goes uncomforted and still breaking, while the comfort is so close at hand. We should look up when we are in sorrow; if we look down only — we shall never see the beauties and glories of the face of Jesus, and our hearts shall be uncomforted, though He is close beside us.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Mary Magdalene's deliverance and devotion
- Her faithful presence at the cross and tomb
- Jesus appearing first to her after resurrection
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II
- Mary's failure to recognize Jesus despite yearning
- The effect of tears and grief on recognition
- Spiritual parallels to believers' experiences
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III
- Illustration of a grieving mother and an unseen angel
- The danger of being absorbed in sorrow
- The call to look up and see Jesus' comforting presence
Key Quotes
“Many a time it is the same with us: we need Christ, and our hearts are crying out for Him. Yet when He comes to us — we do not know Him, and therefore fail to receive comfort from His presence.” — J.R. Miller
“We should look up when we are in sorrow; if we look down only — we shall never see the beauties and glories of the face of Jesus, and our hearts shall be uncomforted, though He is close beside us.” — J.R. Miller
“Jesus appeared first to her in the morning He arose, yet she did not know Him, though she loved Him so much, and though her heart was hungering for Him.” — J.R. Miller
Application Points
- When overwhelmed by sorrow, intentionally look up to seek Jesus' presence rather than focusing solely on your grief.
- Cultivate a heart of devotion and faithfulness like Mary Magdalene, following Christ even in difficult times.
- Be aware that Christ may be near even when you do not immediately recognize Him, so remain open to His comforting work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Mary Magdalene?
Mary Magdalene was a woman delivered by Jesus from seven demons who became one of His devoted followers, present at His crucifixion and resurrection.
Why did Mary Magdalene not recognize Jesus initially?
She was overwhelmed by grief and tears, and her heart was still hungering for Him as one who was dead, which clouded her recognition.
What lesson does Mary Magdalene's experience teach believers?
It teaches that even when we deeply desire Christ, we may fail to recognize His presence if our hearts are clouded by sorrow or distraction.
How can believers find comfort in times of sorrow?
By looking up and being open to Jesus' presence rather than being absorbed in grief, believers can receive His comforting nearness.