Every time I read one particular word in John 20:16 I am flooded with deep emotion. Why? Mary has brought spices to Jesus’ tomb early Sunday morning and is weeping and  broken-hearted because she discovered Jesus’ body was missing. Then, she turned around and was surprised to see a man she didn’t recognize behind her. She explained to him Who she was looking for. The man spoke that one word, and it caused her to fall to the ground. The word was her name, “Mary.” 

I love my Savior, Jesus Christ. I live for Him Who died for me. He is the propitiation for my sins. By faith I’m brought into a relationship with God the Father. “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:1-2).

I plead with you, do you know Him? Not do you go to church, or merely believe that Jesus is the Son of God, but do you know Him? Do you live for Him Who died for you? 

Frankly, even more important, does He know you? He knew Mary and with the sound of His voice saying her name, she fell to the ground in love, relief, and adoration. 

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:21-23).