The Unrecognizable Christ
On that pivotal Easter morning, over 2000 years ago, Mary Magdalene and other devoted women arrived at the tomb, bearing spices and perfume to anoint Jesus’ body. However, they were met with an empty tomb – the body was gone. The news spread like wildfire as they rushed to inform the disciples, “They have taken away the Lord.”
A New Reality
After Peter and John had investigated the evidence and returned home, Mary lingered by the tomb, overcome with grief. Suddenly, she heard a noise behind her and turned to face a man standing before her. It was Jesus, yet she failed to recognize him. “Why are you weeping? Who are you looking for?” he asked, his words piercing the air. Mary, still unaware of the resurrected Christ, replied, “Tell me where you have laid him, and I will get him.”
Expectancy and Faith
Why did Mary not recognize Jesus? Perhaps it’s because her expectations were too narrow, too bound by what she had previously known. Aren’t we guilty of the same mindset? We pray, yet often without genuine expectation of change. Our faith can be limited by our finite understanding. Not until Jesus called Mary by name did she realize the living Christ stood before her.
A New Creation
In that transformative moment, Mary’s doubts dissipated, replaced by an unshakeable certainty. She hastened to share the news with the disciples, her face radiant with joy. “I have seen the LORD!” she exclaimed. Everything had changed; a new era had begun. Like Mary, I yearn to shed my doubts and welcome the miracle of resurrection life. I want to live with expectancy, anticipating the new things the living Christ will do in my life today.
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