Mary ....

“Mary!” Jesus said. She turned towards him and exclaimed, “Teacher!”

 (John 20: 16 - NLT)

Names often created a particular association. We may name a child after a close friend because the mention of their name brings to mind all the good things we associate with their character. On the other hand there are names that bring negative associations - some might even dislike the mention of a name because of the negative character traits they bring to mind.

For many the name – “Mary” - from Magdala, the woman mentioned here, would at once have brought a negative association. Apart from having had a history of demon possession, the very town by which she was known had immoral implications – indeed it probably characterised her own life. If Jesus was criticised by the religious establishment for his friendship with “sinners” – then this woman would have been one of them.

Yet – her life had been transformed through her association with Jesus. And, as Jesus, expressing the heart of his Father, breathes her name on this occasion, his voice is full of compassion, pity, love and mercy. Indeed this is the voice that had won her heart from the very beginning! Interestingly, it is at the mention of her name she recognises Jesus!

Father knows you by name! He knew your name before your birth (Isaiah 49: 1) – and he knows what that name will mean to others as you grow to maturity. He calls you by name and his voice is one of compassion, love, mercy and grace. He longs for us to respond freely to him with our love.