Noli Me Tangere

"Noli Me Tangere" by Ciro Ferri

These are the words Jesus spoke to Mary Magdalene when He appeared to her after His resurrection. In fact at first she thought He was the gardener, because the new image of the Risen Christ was now different from what He looked like before. But after calling her name, she recognized Him and responded by the affectionate words “Rabbouni” (Teacher - Rabbi.) Many artists painted this touching scene, and in every one of them I noticed that Jesus is seen pushing Mary away from Him, thereby the title and the words He uttered to her “Noli me Tangere” - Do not touch me, because I have not as yet gone to my Father. 

"Noli Me Tangere" ivory sculpture from Spain 1090

Mary Magdalene was honored that she was the very first person to whom Jesus appeared. He could have waited to show himself to Peter or John who were running towards the empty tomb together. He could have even chosen to show Himself to His mother Mary, who was probably with the 11 apostles, waiting to hear any further news of his disappearance. But instead, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, the woman disciple who loved Him so much, because He had forgiven her so much of her past.