27/03/2026
According to John’s Gospel, the first appearance that the risen Jesus made was to Mary Magdalene. What many folk have thought is the most astonishing event of the history of the world is marked by a quiet word between two friends.
Jesus, risen from the dead, makes no triumphal return to the city full of folk celebrating the Passover. No, He waits in the garden for friends to appear, then in the evening goes to the house where His disciples were hiding.
His first encounter was with Mary Magdalene, who had stood at the foot of the Cross with Jesus’ mother Mary and then on the Sunday had stood at His grave. She was so upset because He had helped her in many ways and given her a new life.
With eyes filled with tears she offers to look after His missing body. Then Jesus speaks to her from behind and she recognises Him at once. His first appearance is to someone with no power or authority but someone He cared for and loved and who loved and cared for Him.
That was the heart of His message while with us on Earth; that loving and caring and helping are the most valued of aspects of life. The story of Easter is much more than a history story or a legend from long ago; it is a living message and experience that guides countless lives even today and it not only comforts them but inspires them to care, love and have compassion, as millions have done.
May God bless you and your loved ones this Easter.
Brian
