Read: Luke 24:1-12
Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. (vv. 5-6)
Days after the crucifixion, the apostles huddled together in a dark room, terrified. But the women were at the tomb, ready to anoint Jesus’ body. This was a sign of devotion toward a beloved one who had died. It was a woman’s responsibility to anoint the dead, but these women were in as much danger as the male apostles were. The fact that they didn’t choose to hide away shows the extent of their devotion to Christ. They were there at the tomb, not just because it was their job to be there, but also because they loved Jesus enough to take the risk.
Why did Jesus reveal himself to the women first? We know that the gospel was particularly important to those who had no other hope—the ones for whom society’s rules were particularly oppressive. We also know that Mother Mary was known as a woman who had gotten pregnant outside of marriage. Mary Magdalene was also a woman of questionable reputation. It is significant that the good news was first proclaimed to, and by, these women. It suggests that the resurrection is for those who are dismissed. New life is offered to them, and those same outcast ones are themselves made bearers of the resurrection message.
Jesus chose this group of women disciples to be the first preachers of the gospel. Alongside these women, we discover that Jesus’ resurrection is for the outcast. —Amy Curran
As you pray, thank God for a gospel that is good news for all.
About the Author
Amy Curran is a gardener, a reader, a runner, and an avid coffee drinker. She lives in Durham, North Carolina, where she runs a community garden and a farm-to-table café for Reality Ministries.
