What can we learn from the women's presence at the tomb about faithfulness? Setting the Scene “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.” (Matthew 27:61) Faithfulness That Stays When Others Scatter • While the male disciples fled (Matthew 26:56), these women remained. • Their presence fulfilled the exhortation of Proverbs 17:17—“a friend loves at all times.” • True loyalty stands firm even when dreams seem buried. Faithfulness That Watches and Waits • They “saw where His body was laid” (Mark 15:47). • Luke 23:55-56 records that they observed carefully, then planned to return with spices. • Waiting through the long Sabbath, they practiced Psalm 37:7—“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” Faithfulness Expressed Through Service • Action, not mere sentiment: they prepared spices (Mark 16:1). • Faithfulness is hands-on: Galatians 5:6 affirms that “faith works through love.” • Small, practical deeds matter to God (Matthew 25:40). Faithfulness Marked by Courage • Publicly identifying with Jesus’ tomb risked ridicule and danger. • Proverbs 28:1: “The righteous are as bold as a lion.” • Their quiet bravery challenges us to stand unashamed of Christ (Romans 1:16). Faithfulness Rewarded with Revelation • Because they were first at the tomb on resurrection morning (Matthew 28:1-10), they became first witnesses of the risen Lord. • God honors steadfast devotion with deeper insight (John 14:21). • Their witness anchors the gospel record (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Taking the Lesson Home • Stay when others leave. • Watch and wait through the dark seasons. • Serve in tangible, simple ways. • Stand courageously for Jesus. • Expect God to meet steadfast faith with fresh revelation. |