How can we apply the women's example of loyalty in our daily Christian walk? The Moment That Reveals Loyalty “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.” (Matthew 27:61) They stayed when nearly everyone else had scattered. Their quiet vigil captures the kind of steadfast devotion God commends. What Their Loyalty Looked Like • Presence when it was hardest—no spotlight, no applause, just love • Courage to be identified with a condemned Savior • Refusal to let grief, danger, or fatigue turn them away • Hope that clung to Jesus even when His body lay motionless Why Their Loyalty Matters Today • Scripture repeatedly shows that faithfulness in dark moments precedes fresh revelation (the women became first witnesses of the resurrection, Matthew 28:1–10). • Loyalty confirms genuine love: “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck.” (Proverbs 3:3) • Our steadfastness points others to the unchanging character of Christ. Practical Ways to Walk in the Same Loyalty 1. Stay near Jesus through the Word. – Begin and end the day with His voice, even when emotions are flat. 2. Remain with His people. – Show up for worship, small groups, and persecuted believers worldwide (Hebrews 10:23–25). 3. Serve without fanfare. – The women brought spices (Mark 16:1). Look for unseen tasks that honor Christ rather than ourselves. 4. Stand firm when following Him costs something. – “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) 5. Remember future hope. – Loyalty is sustained by the certainty that “the crown of life” awaits those who endure (James 1:12). Encouragement from Other Loyal Hearts • Ruth clung to Naomi: “Where you go I will go… your God will be my God.” (Ruth 1:16) • Mary, Jesus’ mother, stood by the cross (John 19:25). • Paul finished his course, keeping the faith (2 Timothy 4:7). The same Spirit who enabled their loyalty indwells us. Hold your position by the tomb, and watch how He turns mourning into resurrection joy. |