Grace found her a maniac--and made her a minister!

(Charles Spurgeon)

"He appeared first to Mary Magdalene--out of whom He had cast seven devils." Mark 16:9

Mary of Magdala was the victim of a fearful evil. She was possessed by not one devil only--but seven. These dreadful inhabitants caused much pain and pollution to the poor frame in which they had found a lodging. Hers was a hopeless, horrible case! She could not help herself, neither could any human support avail. But Jesus passed that way, and unsought, and probably even resisted by the poor demoniac, He uttered the word of power--and Mary of Magdala became a trophy of the saving power of Jesus.

What a blessed deliverance!
What a happy change!

From delirium--to delight,
from despair--to peace,
from hell--to heaven!

At once, she became a constant follower of Jesus, catching His every word, following His winding steps, sharing His toilsome life; and withal she became His generous helper, first among that band of saved and grateful women--who ministered unto Him of their substance.

When Jesus was lifted up in crucifixion, Mary remained the sharer of His shame--we find her drawing near to the foot of the cross. She could not die on the cross with Jesus--but she stood as near to it as she could. She was the faithful and watchful believer--last at the sepulcher where Jesus slept; first at the grave whence He arose!

Thus, grace found her a maniac--and made her a minister!

Grace delivered her from Satan--and united her forever to the Lord Jesus!

May I also be such a miracle of grace!

(courtesy of Grace Gems)