Apart from Mary Magdalene’s presence at the cross and at the tomb, there is only one other reference to her in the entire New Testament. She is included among the women disciples who traveled with Jesus.
“Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities. Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna…Susanna, and many others…” (Lk 8:1-3)
As often happens with those about whom little is known, legends grew up about Mary Magdalene. One says that after Jesus’ ascension, she was miraculously transported to France in an oarless boat.
Another legend is that she went with the Mother of Jesus to Ephesus, and died there. Still another legend has her going to Rome.
Mary Magdalene is an important figure in the recent book -- The Da Vinci Code. This novel, which does not claim to be historical, draws upon legends and mixes fact and fable to create a fascinating story. Scholars are careful to point out that the plot is thread together by means of much historical and theological fiction.
These two women are sent by Jesus to tell the good news to the other disciples.
If Jesus wants to meet the disciples in Galilee, why doesn’t he go and tell them himself? Because the Risen Christ acts through others. His appearances were not favors to selected individuals. He manifested himself in order to send the newborn Church on its mission. In today’s passage, we see him send Mary Magdalene and the other Mary on a mission -- passing on the good news…and a sense of forgiveness.
Notice that Jesus refers to the other disciples as “my brothers.” He had done this during his ministry, but that was before they had failed miserably and abandoned him in Gethsemane. But the Lord came for sinners. He mercifully restores them to full discipleship by referring to them again as “my brothers.” They are forgiven.
There are two traits we must never lose. But along the way there have been times when one or the other is weaker or stronger.
Which is most needed in our time? In my life?