Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).

— John 20:16

There are times in life when we have to do some things we don’t want to do. Tough things. There’s that phone call we have to make. Or that task ahead of us that looks bigger than we bargained for. Or maybe we have received news that shatters our thinking, and we can’t imagine how we can deal with the situation.

I am sure that is how Mary felt. Her heart was heavy with the news of Jesus’ death. She knew that his body was placed in the tomb, and she and some others had wanted to make sure his body was prepared properly (Mark 16:1-7; Luke 24:1-12). Imagine their surprise when the tomb was empty. How could this be?

After sharing the news with Jesus’ disciples (John 20:1-2), Mary went back to the tomb and stood there. Her heart was heavy, and the tears for her Lord trickled down her face. Someone else was there too. A gardener? Perhaps he might know something.

He said, “Why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Then he spoke her name. And she knew it was Jesus. Her whole outlook changed. What a glorious encounter!

Whatever circumstances you are in and no matter what struggles you are facing, be assured that Jesus is with you (Matthew 28:20) and that he knows your name.

When we are distracted by tough circumstances in our lives, thank you for interrupting us, Lord, to call our name. Thank you for being there and reminding us how much you love us. Amen.