Forward Movement is an official, non-profit agency of the Episcopal Church whose mission is to create compelling content for Christian living. Since 1935 we have published the quarterly devotional Forward Day by Day, as well as pamphlets, booklets, and books that encourage and nourish people in their lives of prayer and faith.
WEDNESDAY, July 22 Saint Mary Magdalene
John 20:11-18. Jesus said to her, "Mary!"
I recently attended a memorial service in a church of another denomination. Eulogies were given by three people. They called this much-loved woman mother, grandmother, teacher, colleague, friend, Christian, confidante, defender of the poor, philanthropist, and many other things.
The talks continued for forty-five minutes, and I found myself wondering how people would describe me at my death. Would I have lived my heart and soul so transparently that a co-worker, a family member, and a church friend could agree on the description of my life?
Just who Mary Magdalene was has been the subject of much debate and speculation. Was she affluent? A floozy? Did the risen Lord appear first to her so he could affirm the importance of women in the faith or because she was in the right place at the right time?
The debate will continue on the surface. But when I dig deeper, what matters is that Jesus cut through all the labels for her--past, present and future--to call her by name. He knew her soul. He gave her a job. She hastened to obey. In that, Mary Magdalene becomes a role model for all.
PRAY for the Diocese of Pennsylvania (Province III, U.S.)
Ps 42:1-7; Judith 9:1, 11-14; 2 Corinthians 5:14-18
View the daily Lectionary Readings at Satucket.com.
Or view the Bible passages at Biblegateway.com.
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ON a side note, the Anglican/Episcopal reluctance to allow all these flowery eulogies is one I firmly believe in and impose. The Requiem Eucharist is a celebration of eternal life.