Matthew 27:56
“Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.”
What does Matthew 27:56 mean?
These women had followed Jesus throughout his ministry and came to witness his crucifixion, even when it was dangerous and heartbreaking to be there. Mary Magdalene appears prominently in all four gospels as someone Jesus healed and who became deeply devoted to him, while the other Marys were mothers of his disciples. Their presence at the cross shows extraordinary courage and faithfulness, since being associated with an executed criminal could bring shame and risk to them and their families. This detail reminds us that some of Jesus's most steadfast followers in his darkest hour were women whose names are remembered precisely because they refused to abandon him when it would have been easier to stay away.