Sng of sngs. 3:1-4; John 20:1-2,11-18
There are misconceptions about who Mary Magdalene was. Historically, there were those who thought she was the public sinner mentioned in Luke 7: 36-50, who wiped the feet of Jesus with her hair at the house of a notable Pharisee. But as Cardinal Ravasi notes, this gesture was also carried out by Mary of Bethany in John 12:1-8 days before the passion of Jesus. But Mary Magdalene is neither the public sinner, nor Mary of Bethany. She is from Magdala, a fishing village on the western shore of Lake Tiberias (Luke 8:1-3). She was freed by Jesus from severe demonic possession.
Friends, Mary Magdalene is described by St. Thomas Aquinas as the “Apostle of the Apostles”. And she was most certainly not a prostitute. This is exactly why Pope Francis, on June 10, 2016, raised her celebration to the dignity of a “feast”. As we look through the details of her life, we realise that she’s absolutely deserving of this honour. Her first encounter with Jesus Christ changed her life completely, freeing her from Satanic bondage. It is therefore not surprising that she’s also one of the very first to adore the Lord and make him known after his resurrection. Have we had such a life changing encounter with Jesus?
Prayer
Let us pray for those under the manipulation of the enemy, those who are struggling with temptations of all kinds, and those who already stand condemned by public sentiments, that they may find a much better present and future with Christ Jesus today, Amen.
Good morning dear. God bless your weekend.
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