Inviting Resurrection Guided Mediation
Several years back I read a book called the Meaning of Mary Magdalene by Cynthia Bourgeault and it helped breathe new life into the Easter narrative for me. One of the focal points that I grew up with around the story of Jesus’ death was that he was betrayed by all of his friends–and particularly Peter. Cynthia busted some myths for me and helped bring to the forefront of the story for me the faithfulness of Mary Magdalene.
In Matthew 14, the day before Jesus’ death, she anointed him with oil.
In Mark 15, she is present at the crucifixion.
In Matthew 27, after everyone else had left the burial site, Mary Magdalene stayed.
In John 20, Mary arrived at the empty tomb with Peter and John. The men leave, but Mary stays, and then Jesus appears to her before anyone else.
In Luke 24, Mary Magdalene shares Jesus’ the news of resurrection with Jesus’ male disciples.
Richard Rohr points out in his book Immortal Diamond that connection between his death and resurrection with Mary anointing him prior to his death and also preparing the burial spices after his death. He says, “Jesus has been held in love throughout his entire passage.”
There’s a beautiful poem by Jan Richardson that I read in this meditation–don’t miss it.