An Easter Message: The Value of Women

In John 20, we read the account of the empty sepulchre, and the chapter is not extremely lengthy.  However, what those select words mean to all who consider themselves disciples of Christ is profound, to say the least.   

The messages that stem from this chapter are numerous, but one of the most significant I take from it is the true value of women in the eyes of Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father.  This is only my opinion, and I share it here as such. 

Verse 17 of this chapter begins with this phrase, “Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father,” and it is in these few words that I feel volumes are spoken as to how much Jesus valued Mary Magdalene specifically and women overall.  While He was in the midst of putting the crowning touch on His life’s mission and to ascend to His Father to be perfected, He arranged this short but very important and intimate meeting to take place between Him and Mary.  With the foreknowledge that Peter and John would accompany Mary to the garden, He carefully placed Himself somewhere that Peter and John would not see Him and would hurry away in their haste so He could assure that the first person to see Him is a woman, the very Mary Magdalene. 

Even His simple words of “touch me not” convey a deep and abiding respect for this woman – it was not an admonition to forbid her but a reminder that He wanted to see her before He did even one more thing and ascended to complete His mission.  In other words, the grand plan of the Father that had been set in motion since millennia before could wait a few precious moments more so He could speak with Mary, and Mary alone, to deliver His singular message of hope and love. 

In due time, the men of His life would see Him again, but this woman – perhaps representing all women – was not to wait any longer.  And while the world does not give this much thought or accord any importance, this moment in time and in the eternities demonstrates the true value Jesus and the Father give to women.  They do not view women as less than men or as subservient.  Women are equally powerful, important, and vital in the eyes of God.  May the world see what He sees in women and accord due respect and reverence!