Edina Hall

Followers of Jesus, 

One Easter Sunday many years ago, I attended the sunrise service because I had to go to work later that morning. As per usual, the service was outside, and I remember that it was early enough in the calendar year that I needed a coat and I was sleepily unfocused.   

I also remember the gospel reading. I mean really remember.   

John writes of the opening of the tomb (our reading for today) and Mary of Magdelene’s confusion as to where the body of Jesus had gone. Translations often use the word “weeping,” but I am sure that she was sobbing. Probably keening.

Her Lord who had set her free from demons was dead. The body of her friend whom she had traveled with and supported throughout his ministry was gone. No more deep discussions. No more moments of shared laughter or mutual tears.

It had been only days since she witnessed the entirety of his violent crucifixion. I imagine her whole being was empty—like the tomb.  

Then a man—assumed by her to be the gardener—asks about her sorrow. She is only concerned about the physical body and doesn’t recognize him. She begs, “Tell me where you have laid him!” 

Then he calls her name—“Mary.”  

In what must have been a flood of emotions, she replies—“Rabboni” (Teacher)  

Despite having heard the passage my entire life, on that Sunday I started to tear up. 

I imagined Jesus calling her name with all the love of two people who knew each other on the deepest levels. In the call of her name “Mary,” I heard the call of my own name.  And yours. And all of humanity.

Today we celebrate the Feast of St. Mary of Magdeline (established 2016). She has been described as “the apostle to the apostles”—for even the most holy find themselves in need of guidance.

For me, Mary of Magdeline serves as a reminder to be faithful in my relationship with Jesus. She reminds me that one can recognize the call of one’s name from the Holy and it will be deep and full of love. 

And she reminds me to tell the world about it. 

—Edina