Today’s scripture: John 20:11-18 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Ben Lamb):
How in the world could Mary Magdalene have carried on a rather normal conversation with a couple of angels dressed in white? By the way it records the meeting, the Bible seems to imply that she didn’t freak-out one bit.
I believe there’s a plausible explanation. Surely, Ms. Magdalene was overcome with grief when she saw her Lord die in such an excruciating manner a few days earlier.
What has been the saddest moment of your life? How did you respond?
I can’t help but believe that Mary Magdalene was still in a state of shock when she went to Jesus’ tomb. No matter how kindly and compassionately the angels may have treated her, it seems odd that she expresses no surprise. Humans simply don’t encounter a couple of heavenly beings dressed in shining white and sitting inside an empty tomb every day!
She doesn’t even initially recognize Jesus. I suppose I wouldn’t have, either. Not many people see a person die one day and then anticipate encountering the same person in perfect health a few days later. However, upon hearing his voice, she instantly realizes who he actually is and her mood changes.
I’m impressed that Jesus chose a woman, and a “common” one at that, to first reappear. You’ll recall that women were generally of an inferior status in those days; apparently Jesus chose to disregard that fact. Mary is sometimes referred to as the “Apostle to the Apostles” because Jesus chose her for this “He’s risen!” proclamation.
I’m so happy that Jesus didn’t allow himself to be “stuck in the box” of stale tradition. His teachings were so full of substance and were meant to be heard by every single person whom he and others encountered. He excluded nobody. You know what? The same is true today, too!
Thought for the day: Jesus: Good then; good now.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.