Mary Magdalene is closely connected to Jesus and closely connected to his original group of apostles. Her name comes from her home town of Magdala, which was fishing village on the western shore of Lake Tiberias in Ancient Israel. Her celebration was elevated by Pope Francis from a memorial mass to a feast, just like the other apostles. We probably remember her from the Gospels for the way she stood by Jesus during his passion and crucifixion when a lot of other apostles had abandoned him, as well as for her presence at the empty tomb after his death and resurrection. She announces the discovery of the empty tomb to the others. At first she does not recognize Jesus as he appears to her at the empty tomb. Sometimes we also can be blind to Christ’s presence amongst us, especially if we are blinded by an experience of grief, or anger, or frustration, or other strong emotion. We can also be blinded by other things, such as our human failings, our pride, and our worldly desires. Like Mary Magdalene, we need to only open our eyes and trust in the Lord. We can open up ourselves to Christ’s presence in our lives by imitating him each day on our journey of faith, by reading God’s holy word, by communicating with him in prayer, and by receiving Christ’s body and blood in the Eucharist. Mary Magdalene was called to know him, to love him, and to serve him. We have received this same call, to give of ourselves completely to Christ. We honor Mary Magdalene and her witness of faith today. May we unite our prayers with her prayers at Mass today.
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