The Women at the Feet, the Cross, and the Tomb of Jesus

The story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42 is remarkable for many reasons. For starters, in that time and culture, it was uncommon for women to sit at the feet of a rabbi. Mary’s actions were a clear indicator that she desired to learn from Jesus. Then she “fell at his feet.” This action shows us that she recognized who Jesus is and chose to submit herself fully to His teaching and authority. It was an open act of worship. It was also the ultimate act of trust.

THE WOMEN AT HIS CROSS

When I need strength and courage, I remember the women at the cross and the tomb of Jesus. Whenever I read Mark, chapters 15 and 16, I’m always amazed that a small band of women stayed with our Lord to the very end, even after His closest disciples left!

These women stood near the cross through Jesus’ horrendous torture and suffering. But their devotion didn’t end with His death. They followed those who carried the Lord’s body to the tomb where He was placed.

THE WOMEN AT HIS TOMB

Their devotion didn’t end with His burial. They returned to their homes after the worst day of their lives and prepared for the Sabbath. And then, “When the Sabbath was past, [they] bought spices, that they might come and anoint Him” (Mark 16:1). Very early the next morning, after all the trauma of the crucifixion, they came to the tomb where Jesus’ body had been laid.

Our natural human tendency is to look for loopholes, to conjure up an excuse or reason that will get us out of having to show up or having to do something. These women left for the sepulcher not even knowing who would roll the huge stone away from the door of the tomb (verse 3). Next to this verse, I’ve written in my Bible, “They didn’t let a little thing like a massive stone keep them from going.”

Are you like these women? Do you serve faithfully in the midst of extreme difficulty—and to the end?

RESPOND:

Lord, thank you for the example of these women. May we also be so faithful. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

Start or end your day with these powerful one-minute reminders of God’s work in the lives of women in the Bible. You’ll find encouragement for your own faith journey as you meet the women of the Bible.

REFLECT:

What “stones” are in my life now? How can I be faithful in the face of those trials?

REMEMBER:

Whenever you want to take a shortcut or pass on something important or risky, remember the women at His feet, His cross, and His tomb.