Apostle to the Apostles
Reflections on the readings for the Feast of St. Mary Magdalene (July 22, 2019): SGS 3:1-4; 2 COR 5:14-17; PS 63:2,3-4,5-6,8-9; JN 20:1-2,11-18
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
Jesus saved St. Mary Magdalene from seven demons.
We do not know if she had been suffering from physical, mental or spiritual anguish, but we do know that she responded by joining the faithful women who followed Him. Over the centuries she was mistakenly confused with the penitent woman who washed Christ’s feet and anointed them with perfume, as well as with Mary of Bethany, the sister of Martha and Lazarus. However, Mary Magdalene was particularly mentioned in the Gospels as standing at the cross of Jesus along with the Blessed Virgin and other women who were not afraid to show themselves as His disciples. Mary was one of those who prepared Christ’s body to be buried, and she went back when the Sabbath was over. It was at the tomb on Easter morning where she met our risen Lord and Savior.
At first she thought He was the gardener, then when Mary understood who He was, she tried to hold on to Him. He stopped her, but then gave her the glorious task of proclaiming His Resurrection. “‘Go to My brothers and tell them, ‘I am going to My Father and your Father, to My God and your God.’” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, ‘I have seen the Lord,’ and then reported what He told her” (John 20:17-18). St. Mary Magdalene remains a model of bravery and zealous devotion to Christ who saved her, just as He saves all who embrace His mercy.
Suggested missionary action: We can pray to St. Mary Magdalene and ask her help in trusting in our Lord and growing in faith. We can also ask her to guide our efforts in communicating our belief in Christ to others.