He Calls Us by Name
In today’s Gospel, the turning point comes when the risen Jesus simply says, “Mary.” At the sound of her name, she recognizes him and responds, “Rabbouni!” (Teacher). This scene comes from John 20:11–18.
Today, the risen Christ calls Mary of Magdala by her name.
She had been weeping, unable to recognize him. She thought he was the gardener. But everything changed when Jesus spoke one simple word:
“Mary.”
In that moment, she knew. The Shepherd’s voice reached her heart, and she recognized the One she loved.
The same Lord still calls each of us by name. He knows our joys and our sorrows, our doubts and our hopes. We are never just another face in the crowd. We are known, loved, and called personally by Christ.
Like Mary, may we learn to recognize his voice amid the noise of the world. And when he calls our name, may we answer with faith, love, and joyful trust.
“The sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” (John 10:3)
Lord Jesus, help us to hear your voice today. Call us by name, and give us the grace to recognize you, to follow you faithfully, and to proclaim, like Mary Magdalene, the good news of your resurrection. Amen.
What a powerful reminder
God’s first word to many of us is our own name. Before He sends us on a mission, He calls us into a relationship. Mary Magdalene teaches us that recognizing Christ begins not with seeing Him clearly, but with hearing His voice calling us personally.
