August 9

Morning

And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, because the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its lamp. — Rev 21:23 BSB

In that better world beyond, the inhabitants are completely independent of all earthly comforts. They have no need for clothing, for their white robes never wear out and never become stained. They require no medicine, for “the inhabitant will never say, ‘I am sick.’” They do not need sleep to renew their strength, for they rest not day or night, always praising Him in His temple. They do not rely on social relationships for comfort, and while they may enjoy the company of others, their ultimate joy is found in the presence of their Lord, which satisfies their every desire. They have no need for teachers; while they may converse with one another about the wonders of God, they don’t need instruction, for they are all taught directly by the Lord.

Here on earth, we receive alms at the king’s gate, but in heaven, they feast at His table. Here we lean on the arms of our friends, but there they lean on their Beloved alone. Here we rely on the help of our companions, but there they find everything they need in Christ Jesus. Here we depend on food and clothing that fade away, but there they find all their sustenance in God. On earth, we draw water from the well with a bucket, but in heaven, they drink directly from the fountain of life. Here angels bring us blessings, but there will be no need for heavenly messengers, for they will see God face to face. Oh, what a blessed time it will be when we rise above every earthly need and rest fully in God’s presence! How glorious it will be when God Himself, not His works or creatures, becomes our everlasting joy! Then, our souls will have reached the perfection of bliss!

Evening

Early on the first day of the week, after Jesus had risen, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had driven out seven demons. — Mark 16:9 BSB

Mary of Magdala was once tormented by a great evil, not just by one demon but by seven. These terrible spirits caused her intense pain and defiled her soul. Her situation seemed utterly hopeless—she was powerless to help herself, and no human support could save her. But then Jesus passed by. Without being sought, and likely even resisted by the possessed woman, Jesus spoke a word of power, and Mary was delivered. All seven demons were cast out, never to return, driven out by the Lord of all. What a marvelous deliverance! What a glorious transformation—from madness to peace, from despair to joy, from hell to heaven!

Immediately, Mary became a devoted follower of Jesus, hanging on His every word and sharing in His laborious journey. She was also generous in supporting Him, becoming one of the first among the group of women who ministered to Him with their resources.

When Jesus was lifted up on the cross, Mary stayed by His side, sharing in His shame. She was first a distant observer, then she drew near to the foot of the cross. She couldn’t die with Him, but she stood as close as she could. When His body was taken down, she carefully watched to see where it was laid. Her faithfulness was unwavering. She was the last at the tomb and the first to witness His resurrection. Her devotion made her the privileged recipient of Jesus’ first post-resurrection appearance, where He called her by name and entrusted her with the joyful news for His disciples. Thus, grace transformed her from a tormented soul into a servant of the Lord. Grace freed her from Satan’s grasp and forever united her with Jesus. May I, too, be such a miracle of grace!