How can John 20:13 inspire us to seek Jesus in times of sorrow? Opening the text “Woman, why are you weeping?” they asked. “Because they have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I do not know where they have put Him.” (John 20:13) The scene in view • Mary Magdalene stands at an empty tomb, convinced she has lost the One who rescued her life. • Her tears flow even while two angels sit where Jesus’ body had been. • She speaks honestly: “My Lord… I do not know where they have put Him.” Grief and faith mingle in the same sentence. Why this verse meets our sorrow head-on • It shows that deep pain can coexist with unwavering devotion. Mary’s first instinct is still about “my Lord.” • Heaven notices tears. The angels open the conversation with compassionate concern, not rebuke. • The empty tomb is, in reality, the beginning of hope, not the confirmation of loss. Mary’s perspective is temporary; God’s plan is eternal. How John 20:13 invites us to seek Jesus when we hurt 1. Acknowledge the sorrow – Mary does not mask her grief. Scripture gives permission to feel (cf. Psalm 34:18). 2. Speak honestly to the Lord – “They have taken my Lord away” models transparent prayer. We can pour out confusion and still call Him “my Lord.” 3. Remain where He last met you – Mary stays near the tomb. In valleys, remain near His Word, His people, His promises. 4. Expect a response from heaven – Her lament is answered moments later by the risen Christ Himself (v. 16). Seekers find (Jeremiah 29:13). 5. Let sorrow turn into new mission – After meeting Jesus, Mary runs to testify, “I have seen the Lord!” (v. 18). Our comfort becomes ministry (2 Corinthians 1:4). Practical ways to put this into practice today • Read the resurrection account aloud when grief strikes. • Keep a journal of honest prayers, ending each entry with a truth about Christ’s character. • Sit quietly with John 20 until the Spirit shifts focus from the absence to the promise. • Share with another believer how Jesus has met you in past sorrows—testimony fuels hope. Additional Scriptures that reinforce the invitation • Psalm 34:18 – “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.” • Matthew 11:28 – “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” • 1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.” • Hebrews 4:16 – “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Takeaway to hold onto When sorrow says, “I don’t know where He is,” John 20:13 answers, “Keep looking—He is closer than you think, ready to turn tears into testimony.” |
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