Mary Magdalene was the victim of a fearful evil. Not one demon possessed her, but seven. Seven! These dreadful inmates caused terrible pain and pollution to the poor frame in which they had found their lodging. Hers was a hopeless, horrible case. She could not help herself. No human power could touch her torment.

But Jesus passed that way. Unsought—probably even resisted by the poor demoniac—he spoke the word of power. And Mary Magdalene became a trophy of the healing power of Jesus! All seven demons left her, left her never to return, forcibly ejected by the Lord of all.

What a blessed deliverance! What a happy change! From delirium to delight, from despair to peace, from hell to heaven!

Straightway she became his constant follower, catching every word that fell from his lips, following his wandering steps, sharing his toilsome life. And more—she became his generous helper, first among that band of healed and grateful women who ministered to him from their own substance.

When Jesus was lifted up in crucifixion, Mary remained the sharer of his shame. We find her first watching from afar, then drawing near to the foot of the cross. She could not die on the cross with Jesus, but she stood as near as she could. And when his blessed body was taken down, she watched to see exactly how and where it was laid.

She was the faithful and watchful believer—last at the sepulchre where Jesus slept, first at the grave whence he arose. Her holy fidelity made her a favored beholder of her beloved Rabboni, who deigned to call her by name and make her his messenger of good news to the trembling disciples and Peter.

Thus grace found her a maniac and made her a minister! Cast out devils and gave her to behold angels! Delivered her from Satan and united her forever to the Lord Jesus!

May I also be such a miracle of grace!