It is really easy to intellectualize the Easter story. In pulpits this week, we will hear the story told of the disciples racing to the tomb and Mary’s encounter with Jesus. We will hear about the empty tomb, resurrection, and what it all means for Christian theology.

Easter is our richest and most important holy day. And yet, among these responses are alternative visions of what it means to follow Jesus, to relate to him, not as an idea to believe, but as a co-participant in living.

Mary’s response to the moment of intimacy, of revelation, when she is known and named, is to call Jesus what she calls him. He is her teacher and that is what she calls him. Then she calls him Lord. But the intimate title, the one she exclaims in surprise, the one she knows him by is teacher. He is other things, but this is how she knows him.

And I suspect that Rabbouni is therefore as signifiant a truth claim as Lord. For our relationship with Jesus is also more than worship.