Verse
John 20:16 (ESV)
Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher).
Meditation
This tender exchange between the risen Lord and Mary Magdalene reveals the personal love of Christ for His people. At first, she did not recognize Him through her tears and sorrow. But when He speaks her name, everything changes. The Good Shepherd calls His sheep by name, and they know His voice (John 10:3). Her response, “Rabboni,” is not just recognition—it is the voice of love, reverence, and restored hope. Here, resurrection is not only a theological event but an intimate encounter. Christ rises not in abstract glory but to restore and comfort the brokenhearted, to gather His beloved. In speaking her name, He speaks peace into her grief. His resurrection is not far off—it is near, personal, and full of grace. So it is with us. He calls us by name in His Word and Sacraments, drawing us near, restoring us from sorrow to joy.
Old Testament
Isaiah 43:1 (ESV)
“But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.’”
Collect
O risen Christ, who called Mary by name and turned her sorrow into joy, call us also out of our grief and confusion, that we may recognize Your voice, cling to Your Word, and walk in the light of Your resurrection. Grant us hearts that hear and follow, rejoicing that You have called us Your own. Through You who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Hymn Verse
I know my faith is founded
On Jesus Christ, my God and Lord;
And this my faith confessing,
Unmoved I stand on His sure Word.
Our reason cannot fathom
The truth of God profound;
Who trusts in human wisdom
Relies on shifting ground.
God's Word is all-sufficient,
It makes divinely sure;
And trusting in its wisdom,
My faith shall rest secure.
— I Know My Faith Is Founded – LSB 587:1
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