Easter Joy

 Happy Easter!!

The Gospel reading read today tells us about Mary Magdalen and other disciples such as Simon Peter and John finding the tomb empty and witnessing that Jesus had risen from the dead, as he said he would. There are some differences between the Gospels such as Luke and John. The version from the Gospel of John was used this morning.

"On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the tomb removed from the tomb... " 

This is Luke's version.

"On the first day of the week, at the first sign of dawn, they went to the tomb with the spices they had prepared. They found that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb, but on entering they could not find the body of the Lord Jesus... And they returned from the tomb and told all this to the Eleven and to all the others. The women were Mary of Magdala, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James..."

The subtle differences in language with 'early in the morning, while it was still dark' and 'at the first sign of dawn' were interesting to note. This morning I woke up before dawn while reading these passages, and then as it slowly got lighter, at the approach of dawn I thought and contemplated how Mary Magdalen and the others would have felt approaching the empty tomb unexpectedly. 

I was also thinking of Mary Magdalen and how she was with Jesus and his mother and John at the cross, staying with Jesus until the bitter end. A woman with her background, her sins and 7 demons entered into a life with Jesus, and peace, joy, and forgiveness were the effects.

 I don't think its sheer coincidence that she is used as a witness in these Gospel scenes . It showcases in her actions and attitude what God has done for her, a love for him and a spiritual transformation. And she was the first to witness Jesus resurrected and told the others in her profound joy and surprise. Jesus has immense love and respect for women, their mission and purpose in this world. 

I recently watched the other half of the film, Mary of Nazareth. (I watched the beginning parts right before Christmas). This movie does a wonderful job highlighting the events of Mary's life as well as Jesus's ministry. The transformation of Mary Magdalen is also pretty profound, her life of sin and despair to one of utter joy, peace and tranquility. Her make up and style of dress ultimately change, as well as her demeanor once she's united to Christ.

In the movie, right before the last supper Jesus meets with his mother and has an intimate and endearing moment of conversation before his passion begins. You sense her deep sorrow. In the background, it depicts Mary Magdalen and shows her pouring water for someone from a large jug.

 I thought this was very symbolic- the jar symbolizes our spiritual lives (as related from the woman at the well). And she is pouring water and happy to do so- she is giving someone water, but also giving what she has been given - Jesus' living water since she is now living a pure and converted life. 

This Easter Sunday and season, I want to contemplate more of Mary Magdalen and her witness to stay close to Jesus in his passion and agony on the cross, and her life and trust with him.

*My parents got married on her feast day- July 22nd. 

St. Mary Magdalen, pray for us. 

Jar from Carmel Monastery