Set free by Jesus

Mary Magdalene’s story starts in darkness. Both The Chosen and the Bible tell us Jesus delivered her from no less than seven demons. Talking about a distressing image of deep spiritual oppression! We don’t know all the details of Mary Magdalene’s backstory, but we know this: she was trapped, tormented, and beyond any human help.

Spiritual oppression isn’t always as conspicuous–as it was with Mary Magdalene. Sometimes, it’s subtle: a gloominess, a persisting voice of shame, feelings of being stuck. Like a cold that hampers our senses, it can keep us from breathing freely. Maybe you’ve felt that way, too—spiritually burdened, confused, or lost. In that case, we can draw hope from Mary Magdalene's story. When Jesus stepped into her story everything changed! Your story could be changed in the same way.

As Jesus healed Mary Magdalene, He didn’t just remove her demons—He mostly restored her identity and redirected her fate. She went from being known by her brokenness to being known by her connection to Jesus. In Luke 8:1–3, she’s listed among His closest followers. Mary Magdalene's healing was a starting point. From that moment forward, she followed Jesus eagerly, staying close, listening, and serving.

You too might carry burdens that seem invisible but weigh heavily on your heart and soul. Pain from the past. Shame that won’t let go. Patterns that feel unbreakable. Just like with Mary Magdalene, Jesus doesn’t avoid the dim and dark parts of our lives—Instead: He meets us there. Right there. Without judgement. Without ifs or buts. But with authority. To proclaim freedom over you where we’ve only known captivity.

Today, let Mary Magdalene’s story awaken your own longing for freedom. Where do you need healing? What parts of your life feel stuck or suffocated? Jesus still sets people free—emotionally, spiritually, relationally. He’s not distant. He’s near. And when He speaks your name, like He did to Mary Magdalene, everything can begin to change. Healing starts with Him. Freedom starts today.

Where in your life do you long for the liberating intervention of Jesus?

P.S. Are you enjoying this journey with Mary Magdalene? Your own character might even resemble hers. Care to find out? Take our The Chosen 'Test of Character' and journey for a while with the character you have the most in common with.