How can we ensure we are witnesses to Jesus' work in our lives? Setting the Scene Mark 15:47 records, “Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where His body was laid.” Two faithful followers linger at the tomb, eyes fixed on the place where Jesus’ body rests. Their simple act of watching becomes the seedbed for bold testimony once He rises. From their quiet vigilance we discover how to live as unmistakable witnesses of Christ’s work in our own lives. Watching at the Tomb The women’s example highlights three essentials: • Presence – They stayed when most had scattered (John 19:25). • Attention – They noticed the precise location, ready to return (Mark 16:1). • Expectation – They came prepared to serve, believing more could unfold (Luke 24:1). Faithful presence, attentive hearts, and expectant service are still foundational for every believer who longs to testify of Jesus today. Why Their Witness Matters • Confirms the reality of the burial, guarding the truth of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Shows that ordinary disciples, not just apostles, carry the story forward (Acts 2:17-18). • Demonstrates that seeing leads to speaking: Mary Magdalene later declares, “I have seen the Lord!” (John 20:18). Steps to Ensure We Are Witnesses 1. Stay near Jesus through His Word – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Colossians 3:16). The women lingered at the tomb; we linger in Scripture. 2. Pay close attention to His works – Keep a journal of answered prayer, transformed habits, unexpected provisions. Noticing heightens praise and readies testimony. 3. Cultivate expectancy in prayer – “Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things” (Jeremiah 33:3). Expectation sharpens vision for God’s activity. 4. Obey promptly when the Spirit nudges – The women returned at dawn; likewise, respond quickly (James 1:22). Obedience turns private awareness into public witness. 5. Speak what you have seen and heard – “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). Personal stories carry undeniable weight. Connecting Truths • Acts 1:8 – “You will receive power… and you will be My witnesses.” The promise links Spirit-empowerment with daily testimony. • 1 John 1:1-3 – Eyewitness language invites fellowship rooted in factual events. • Psalm 145:4 – “One generation shall declare Your works to the next.” Testimony is God’s chosen means of perpetuating truth. Living as Present-Day Witnesses • Begin each day with Word and prayer, positioning yourself like the women at the tomb. • Record at least one way you saw Christ at work today; rehearse it to family or friends. • Share specific stories of deliverance or provision when opportunities arise, trusting the Spirit to use them (1 Peter 3:15). • Gather regularly with other believers to recount the Lord’s deeds; collective remembrance fuels collective courage (Hebrews 10:24-25). Witnesses are not spectators; they are participants who stay, see, and speak. As Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph fixed their gaze on Jesus’ resting place, so we fix our hearts on His living presence. Remaining near, observing carefully, and speaking boldly ensure that the world around us hears the unmistakable echo: Jesus is alive, and He is at work in us. |
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