John - Mary Magdalene

John's stated aim was to lead his readers to faith in Jesus and to eternal life. Mary's encounter with the Risen Lord shows us someone who had that faith and life. Her tears were due in part to the mistake she had made - thinking only about what Jesus had done IN her (casting out demons)and forgetting what Jesus had just done FOR her (died for her sins). It should warn us against depending on subjective experiences instead of objective facts. But it also showed her love for him (that always shows), and that is what Jesus responded to. Even in death she could not bear to leave him - what a testimony to her faith and love. But her love was no greater than his love for her - he returned to the tomb to meet her. What will heaven be like when that meeting was so wonderful! He gave her an order - to tell his brothers. In spite of all their disloyalty and unbelief he still called them (and us) 'brothers'. Her faith showed her Jesus standing beside her on earth. Your faith will eventually lead you to Jesus beside you in heaven.