Magdala 

Magdala is located about halfway on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee and goes by the modern name of Midgal. Coastal cities just above are Bethsaida and Capernaum, and just below sits Tiberias. Magdala was at the crossroads of trips to many other cities. It lies in close proximity to the cities of Cana and Nazareth. It is twenty-two miles from Magdala to Nazareth. These cities are in the region of Galilee, specifically Lower Galilee, and on the west side of the freshwater lake.

The town of Magdala was a significant place for Jesus and his family. Magdala was a bustling fishing village known for its trade and commerce. For Jesus, Magdala became a pivotal location where he encountered various individuals, each with their own unique stories and struggles.

When he was a child, Jesus’ father did considerable work in the neighboring cities of Nazareth, including Magdala. Jesus’ uncle was a fisherman who lived on the outskirts of Magdala and Jesus would often spend time, while growing up, on fishing excursions with his uncle. Later, Jesus’ brother Jude became a fisherman under the tutelage of a relative in Magdala, and he later settled there.

It was at Magdala that the Women's Evangelistic Corps, who Jesus authorized as teachers of the new gospel, first demonstrated their unique contributions to the kingdom and the wisdom behind Jesus having them serve as equals. Andrew had imposed rather strict rules on his associates regarding doing personal work with women, particularly those of dubious character. When the party arrived in Magdala, the female evangelists were free to enter the evil resorts and preach the good news to all. And when they went to see the sick, these women were able to get very close to their sick sisters.

At one of these places, Mary Magdalene heard the good news and believed it. She was inspired to rise above the challenges she faced, fostering a sense of hope and renewal within her. Mary Magdalene, in turn, became an ardent supporter and advocate of Jesus' teachings, eventually playing a crucial role in the spread of his message.

In this small town, Jesus engaged with the marginalized and downtrodden, spreading his message of love, compassion, and spiritual redemption. His interactions with the people of Magdala exemplified his commitment to reaching out to those on the fringes of society, offering them solace and a sense of belonging. Magdala thus served as a symbol of Jesus' unwavering dedication to uplift the lives of those society had cast aside, emphasizing the universal nature of his teachings and the all-encompassing love he sought to instill in the hearts of all.