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Matthew 28:1 (BSB)
After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.” — Matthew 28:1
Picture this: it's early morning, just as the sun is about to rise. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary are walking towards a tomb, hearts heavy and filled with a mix of sorrow and determination. They’re not just going to visit a grave; they’re on a mission fueled by love and grief. This moment is powerful because it shows their devotion and the raw emotion of facing loss. It’s a moment that captures the essence of hope amidst despair, and you can almost feel the air buzzing with anticipation of what’s to come next.
This account comes from Matthew, one of Jesus’ followers who wanted to share his experiences. Matthew was a tax collector turned disciple, which gives him a unique perspective on the events he records. He includes this specific detail of Mary and the other Mary visiting the tomb because it highlights the importance of the women in this story. They were among the first to witness the miracle of resurrection, showing that love and faith can shine brightly, even in the darkest moments.
This was written in a time when people were grappling with the aftermath of Jesus’ crucifixion, around 30-60 AD. The world was filled with tension and uncertainty, especially for Jesus’ followers who faced persecution and doubt. The timing of this moment is crucial; it’s the dawn of a new beginning, not just for the women but for everyone who would come to believe in Jesus. This period was marked by a longing for hope and change, and what these women were about to discover would spark a movement that changed the world.
This verse matters today because it speaks to the human experience of grief and hope. Just like Mary and the other Mary, you might find yourself facing difficult moments, feeling lost or overwhelmed. Their journey to the tomb reminds us that even in our darkest times, there is a glimmer of hope waiting to be discovered. It’s a powerful reminder that new beginnings are often just around the corner, and sometimes, it takes courage to seek out that light.
This week, take a moment to reflect on something that feels heavy on your heart, just like Mary and the other Mary felt. Maybe it’s a challenge you’re facing or a loss you’re navigating. Find a quiet space, and think about how you can move towards that situation with love and hope. Perhaps write a letter to yourself, expressing your feelings and what you hope for in the future. Let this be a step towards seeking light in your life, just as those women sought it at the tomb.
This verse is like the calm before a storm of incredible change. Just before this moment, Jesus had been crucified, leaving His followers devastated and confused. The chapter unfolds right after the Sabbath, a day of rest when nothing could happen, and now, with the dawn of a new week, everything is about to shift. Mary and the other Mary are approaching the tomb, unaware that they are at the brink of witnessing the most extraordinary event: the resurrection of Jesus. This verse sets the stage for a dramatic revelation that transforms despair into joy, marking a pivotal moment in the story.
What does this moment of Mary and the other Mary approaching the tomb reveal to you about facing your own challenges and seeking hope?
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