The WORD in Other Words by Fr Midas Tambot SVD (Philippines)
Feast of St Mary Magdalene, Sg 3:1-4b or 2 Cor 5:14-17, Jn 20:1-2, 11-18
Loss is part of life. It comes in the guise of minor, everyday disappointments, as well as major storms in life. Loss sends us on a journey through the stages of grief, denial, “what ifs,” sorrow, anger, and, finally acceptance.
Though Mary Magdalene was going through the darkness of grief, love impelled her to search for Jesus. And though the grief over her loss blinded her initially to the presence of the risen Christ, again it was her love that eventually made her recognize that familiar voice calling out her name “Mary.” In her search, Mary found not only her Lord and Teacher but also her calling to tell others of the Good News — the Lord is alive.
All of us go through similar experiences of loss and grief. May we come through our losses as Mary Magdalene did, ever seeking the source of all hope, the One who makes all things fresh and leads us into a meaningful life. As St. Paul wrote to the Romans (8:28), “We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”
In commemorating the feast of St. Mary Magdalene, through her intercession we pray for those who are struggling with their loss and are dealing with grief. And in facing our own storms, may we also be instruments and channels of courage and hope.
