Greetings on this the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene
Readings: Song of Songs 3:1-4b; Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9; John 20:1-2, 11-18
Summary
From the preface SAINT MARY MAGDALENE, Apostle to the Apostles.
He appeared in the garden
and revealed himself to Mary Magdalene,
who had loved him in life,
witnessed him dying on the Cross,
sought him as he lay in the tomb,
and was the first to adore him, newly risen from the dead.
He honored her with the office of being an apostle to the Apostles,
so that the good news of new life
might reach the ends of the earth.
And so, Lord, with all the Angels and Saints,
we, too, give you thanks, as in exultation we acclaim:
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts…
Reflection
Jesus said to her, “Stop holding on to me” (Jn 20:17a).
Our walk with Jesus is a faith in motion. We are constantly reminded to stop holding on to things that limit our faith and relationship with the Lord. Thousands of years of faithful worship strengthen us and reassure us of our common destiny. Jesus’ words to Mary remind us to keep moving forward. Gently release the form of faith that once helped us but now keeps us from following where the risen Lord is leading.
What might this contain?
- Memory of sin. When sin is confessed and forgiven it has only one role remaining. To remind us of the danger and pain that comes from sin. Think of sin memory as a new traffic sign erected at the location of a bad accident. A traffic sign that says “Full Stop” or “No Left Turn” these are the gifts of sin-memory and forgiveness.
- I no longer call you slaves the Lord said. You are Son and Daughter and Brother and Sister. Peacefully enjoy the presence of the Lord.
- Evangelize. If Jesus has helped you, tell someone, anyone. I found him whom my heart loves.
Personal Reflection
Happy Feast Day!
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/072226.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry