So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God – all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us in making us friends of God.
— Romans 5:11

8. She was committed.
Mary Magdalene was there until the end – even if the end wasn't what she wanted. I think in life that we look at our paying jobs as our priority occupation versus ministry. I believe ministry needs to be our priority with our work as secondary. It's so easy to commit to being on leadership at your church and then quit when it's not convenient. You would never do this in your paying job would you? Mary Magdalene stayed till the end, no matter the cost to herself.

He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing what is right.
— Titus 2:14

9. She left a legacy.
Mary Magdalene's life, controversial or not, shows us what it takes to walk with God. She is an inspiration to everyone. Her life is a legacy that inspires others to live in the same way.

I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command:  Love each other.
— John 15:15-17

What an incredible woman! No doubt, Mary Magdalene was special to Christ. Yes, I believe she was one of his closest friends. Probably his closest female friend. She proves you can be friends with the opposite sex. Did they both practice boundaries? Yes! Did she know what his future entailed? Yes! Was she still very sad when he died? Yes! Why yes? Because she was human. And as we know, relationships are very difficult. Jesus had healed her, saved her and gave her not only a new direction but a purpose. Her purpose would be to go and tell others about Him. Would you want to follow Him? Are you following Him?

When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.
— Acts 1:13-14