In John 20, we find Mary Magdalene rising up “early” to go to the tomb where Jesus had been laid after His death.  Can you imagine the emotions and sorrow that Mary felt?  She was full of despair, afraid, hurting, and unsure of her future.  She went to be close to her Lord.  Mary was seeking refuge and was trying to find comfort in being near her Lord.    It is interesting that the men with Mary left when they found Jesus gone but Mary lingered and stayed behind.  What did Mary find in her despair in through her tears?  She first saw the angels and they asked why was she crying.  She explained her sorrow and then Jesus appeared to her.  He revealed himself to her during her time of need.  Jesus came to her to give her hope and assurance that He was alive!!  He then commanded her to go tell the others.  He sent her on her first mission to tell others what the Lord had done and that He was alive.  What lessons can we learn from Mary?

1.  In our sorrows and times of need, rise up “early” and seek the Lord
2.  Open our hearts to him and tell him about our need.  Give all our sorrows and hurts to him.
3.  Linger and wait for him to reveal himself to us.  Wait to hear his instructions to us. 
4.  Allow Him to comfort us.  Allow Him to work in our hearts and lives.
5.  Share with others what God has instructed us to share.

When Mary encountered Jesus, she went from despair to having joy and hope and was full of excitement.  She was burning with a desire to share Jesus with others.  May we encounter Jesus today and share with others what He has done in our lives.