Importance of Women

The homily at daily Mass today really struck me as poignant.  The Gospel was about Mary Magdalene finding that the Lord was no longer in the tomb and she was distressed.  She asked who she thought was the "gardener", but who in fact was the risen Jesus, where her Lord was taken.  He responds with "Why are you weeping?"  Then, all Jesus had to do with say her name and she immediately recognized Him.

Back to why I was so intrigued by the homily.  Father asked the congregation if we knew why Mary was the one who discovered the empty tomb and was the first to encounter the risen Lord rather than a blessed Disciple such as Peter. 

He mentioned, think back to the Gospel from Holy Week speaking to her using a jar of expensive perfumed oil on Jesus.  She was chastised by Judas, who would later betray Jesus.  He scolded her saying that she wasted the oil and it could have been sold for almost a year's wages and given to the poor.  We all know that is not what he would have intended for the money as he controlled the purse strings and was motivated by greed. 

However, what did Jesus say?  We would always have the poor with us but He would not be with us for long?  "Let her do it".  She showed tremendous love of our Lord and wanted to show her love in a very special way.  She was raised up by Jesus.  Given forgiveness and a second chance, she showed her appreciation in a most loving way.   
Father went on to say that Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Jesus were both perfect examples of the importance that God has placed on women.  There were other strong or important women in the Bible but these two played such a special role.  Mary the mother of Jesus, conceived without sin and saying "Yes" to God's wishes without question.  Mary Magdalene, a sinner, receiving forgiveness and changing her life for the Lord.    

Let us pray that we may be as open hearted as these two women to hear God's call and accept the Lord's forgiveness and special blessings He has in store for us.

"He is not here, for he has been raised just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay."

                                                                                        ~Matthew 28:6