Mary

Mary

From Grace for All by Jim Stovall, Greta Smith, First United Methodist Church, Maryville, TN

April 27, 2026 · 5 min · Season 24 · Episode 892

About this episode

This episode explores the moment Mary Magdalene recognizes Jesus after his resurrection, highlighting themes of grief and personal connection.

John 20:13-16, CEB The angels asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?" She replied, "They have taken away my Lord, and I don't know where they've put him." As soon as she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she didn't know it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, "Woman, why are you crying? Who are you looking for?" Thinking he was the gardener, she replied, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him and I will get him." Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned and said to him in Aramaic, "Rabbouni" (which means Teacher). Mary Magdalene stands outside the tomb, weeping. She has seen Jesus die. Whatever hope she once carried has been buried with him. Even when she turns and sees a man standing there, she does not recognize him. Why would she? Resurrection is not what she expects. She assumes he is the gardener. She speaks to him out of grief and confusion, still trying to make sense of what has been lost. And then everything changes with a single word. "Mary." Jesus does not argue with her. He does not explain what has happened. He does not offer proof or theology. He simply calls her by name. And in that moment, she knows. There is…

People in this episode

Hosts: Jim Stovall, Greta Smith

Topics covered

  • resurrection
  • grief
  • recognition
  • faith
  • personal relationship

Keywords

  • Mary Magdalene
  • resurrection
  • Jesus
  • grief
  • recognition
  • faith

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: First United Methodist Church

Books & works: John 20:13-16

Places: Maryville, TN

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