Who am I to Jesus? Friend or Client

Monday, 22 July 2024. Readings: Song of Songs 3:1-4, Ps. 63:2-6,8-9, John 20:1-2,11-18

“Woman, why are you weeping?... They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” (John 20:13)

Today, we celebrate Saint Mary Magdalene. Mary Magdalene was the first to see Jesus Christ after his resurrection, and she delivered the Good News to the apostles. This alone makes her a name to be reckoned with in Christianity. What lessons can we learn from the life of this great Saint?

- Mary Magdalene was most probably a convert who, together with other women, assisted Jesus and his disciples and attended to their needs. Some scholars also believe that it was from her that Jesus cast out seven demons, while others would say that she poured expensive oil on Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. When Jesus gave the parable of the Sower, Mary Magdalene represented the seed that fell on very good soil and yielded a hundred-fold.

- After her conversion, Mary Magdalene gave her life to Christ and became an apostle to the apostles. She represents the truth that for God, it is not your past but your potential that matters. Like St. Paul, who was once Saul, Mary Magdalene’s life shows us that God can work through anybody. It doesn’t matter what your past has been; you can become a saint if you give God a chance.

- Today’s first reading comes from the Song of Solomon, a book about married love. This reading depicts Mary Magdalene’s love for Jesus. When the others deserted Jesus at his arrest and crucifixion, Mary Magdalene was one of those who stood beside the cross. Do I stick to my faith (remain with Jesus) even in moments of suffering and pain? This reminds me of Paul and Silas, who prayed and sang praises to God while in prison.

- Secondly, when others thought it was over and were moving on with their lives, Mary Magdalene, out of love, came back to the tomb very early on that Sunday morning. There is a saying: “You will know how much you are loved when you consider how quickly people forget you after your death.” Mary Magdalene wasn’t going to forget Jesus in a hurry. Mary Magdalene would have moved on with her life if she was only interested in what she would get from Jesus. Do I move on when I feel God has nothing to do for me?

- Thirdly, even before knowing that Jesus was risen, Mary Magdalene called Him “my Lord.” This is a testament to her faith. While many were still doubting how God could take human flesh, Mary believed that Jesus was God. When the angels asked her why she was weeping, she said: “They have taken my Lord away, and I do not know where they have put him.” The phrase “My Lord” occurs only twice in the Gospel of John. Firstly, from the lips of Mary Magdalene in this passage and, secondly, from the lips of Thomas after he had examined the holes in Jesus’ hands and touched his side. (Cf. John 20:26-28). Mary called Jesus my Lord before the resurrection, but Thomas did so after seeing proof. Do I need miracles to believe in God? There is a saying: “Don’t explain yourself; your friends don’t need it, but your enemies will never believe it.”

- Fourthly, when Mary Magdalene recognised Jesus, she used a personal name for Jesus, “Rabonni!” which means “Teacher”. Jesus was different to different people, but to Mary Magdalene, Jesus was the teacher. This name reflects the essence of her relationship with Jesus. I am sure that if it were the woman who had suffered from haemorrhage (bleeding) for twelve years, she would have called Jesus “the healer.” Do you have a personal name for Jesus? From your experience since you became a Christian, what do you have to say about Jesus?

- This brings us to the central question of today’s reflection. Who Am I to Jesus? A friend or client? There are many differences between clients and friends. Clients seek service, but friends seek relationships. Clients leave after their transaction, but friends stick with you in good and bad times. Clients quickly move on to someone else when they think you have nothing to offer, but friends remain for life. Clients never stop complaining, but friends are always understanding.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may my worship of you be pure and sincere. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Mary Magdalen - Feast. Bible Study: Song of Songs 3:1-4, Ps. 63:2-6,8-9, John 20:1-2,11-18).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu