Walking by Faith: Mary Magdalene – A Life Redeemed and Reoriented

She had a reputation no one envied. 

Mary Magdalene wasn’t known for her family name, her accomplishments, or her status.

Scripture introduces her with just one haunting fact: “seven demons had gone out from her” (Luke 8:2). 

Her life before Jesus was one of torment. But everything changed the day He spoke her name. He cast out her demons, restored her dignity, and gave her a new identity—not as a victim of darkness, but as a faithful follower of the Light. 

Mary’s story reminds us that walking by faith often begins at the lowest point. And it leads not only to healing, but to love, devotion, and mission. 

A Life Transformed 

We don’t know much about Mary’s past. The Bible doesn’t dwell on her background—but it’s clear that her life had been fractured by real pain. Luke simply tells us that Jesus had delivered her from demonic oppression (Luke 8:2). 

What we do know is this: after Jesus set her free, she never left His side. 

She followed Him during His ministry. She helped support Him financially, along with other women (Luke 8:3). She traveled with the disciples. And when others scattered at the cross, Mary stayed. 

Grace didn’t just heal her. It gave her direction. 

Present at the Cross 

As Jesus hung on the cross, most of His male disciples fled in fear. But Mary remained. 

“There were also many women there… among whom were Mary Magdalene” (Matt. 27:55–56). 

She didn’t run. She didn’t hide. She watched, grieved, and stayed near. 

Faith doesn’t always look strong. Sometimes it looks like not leaving. Sometimes it looks like loving through the pain. 

Mary’s loyalty didn’t save her—but it showed the depth of her devotion to the One who had saved her. 

First at the Tomb 

On Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary went to the tomb. She expected to anoint a corpse. Instead, she found the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. 

Panicked, she ran to tell the disciples. Then she returned to the tomb, weeping. 

Jesus appeared—but she didn’t recognize Him at first. Then He said her name: 

“Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned and said to him… ‘Rabboni!’” (John 20:16) 

The first person to see the risen Christ was not a priest, a Pharisee, or a prophet—it was a woman who had once been bound by darkness. 

Jesus gave her a mission: “Go to my brothers and say to them…” (John 20:17). 

Mary became the first witness of the resurrection. The first messenger of the gospel. 

What Mary’s Journey Means for Ours 

You may carry shame, pain, or memories that feel disqualifying. You may believe your past is too dark or your story too messy. 

Mary reminds us that Jesus sees past your reputation and into your heart. He’s not deterred by your history. He specializes in redemption. 

When Jesus frees you, He reorients your life. And He often calls the most unlikely people to show the world what faith looks like. 

Final Encouragement 

Mary Magdalene’s story isn’t about perfection. It’s about devotion. It’s about a woman whose life was radically changed by grace—and who responded with unwavering love.

If Jesus can restore Mary, He can restore you. 

So walk by faith. Stay near the cross. Listen for His voice. And when He calls your name, be ready to go and tell others who He is. 

Because the one who delivered you is also the one who sends you.