The Catholic Calendar for Saturday, July 22, 2006
Wednesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
St. Mary Magdalene

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Micah 2:1-5
Psalm 10:1-2, 3-4, 7-8, 14
John 20:1-2, 11-18

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

"I have seen the Lord . . . ."

Mary Magdalene, the unfortunate figure of much malignant speculation at present, demonstrates both the strength and the deep humility that make her such a compelling figure.

When she does not recognize Jesus, she addresses Him with an honorific--"Sir." When she does recognize Him, she addresses Him with even greater humility, "Rabbouni," which is "Teacher" or "Master." Always, she turns to Him and points to Him. When she returns to the disciples with her exciting news, she tells them all He said.

Imagine for a moment the trepidation that must have come with that retelling. Now the doubting, perhaps even hating eyes of the Apostles are upon her. Remember this was a pretty contentious bunch--"Who gets to sit at your right hand, etc." So they are looking at her thinking, "Who is she that He would come to her first? A mere woman."

But, she tells them what He said, and as she tells, their doubt and anger subside and they come to know the truth of His resurrection. Mary Magdalene serves as the herald of that great moment, acting for His resurrection as John did at His baptism.

Mary Magdalene, model of woman, obedient, intelligent, and strong.

- JuandelaCruz
(sriddle415 at yahoo dot com)