John 20:10-18 Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene showed her love and dedication to Jesus during his death. She carefully observed his burial and faithfully went to His tomb at the earliest opportunity (while it was still dark outside) to care for his body. Because of her faithfulness, Mary was the first to see that the stone was rolled away and Jesus' body was missing. Naturally, she was very concerned and went running to two of the disciples. After they had a look they returned to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. Again, because of her faithfulness, she was the first to see Jesus risen from the dead.
Mary wasn't expecting Jesus to appear, so much so she first thought He was the gardener, but as soon as He said her name she knew and cried out "Rabboni" (which means teacher). I can't imagine the shock Mary must have felt when it clicked that Jesus was alive and with her again.
Jesus often surprised the disciples and did the unexpected. We need to allow Jesus to do the same for us. We are called to remain in God's love, to have a faith like Mary had that led her to dedicating her life to Jesus. This eagerness to be with Jesus, gave Him the opportunity to surprise her and show His faithfulness to her.
