Hey, Beautiful Souls!
Today, as we approach the culmination of our Lenten journey, “40 Days from Ashes to Alleluia,” and look towards the joyous celebration of Easter, let’s delve into a profound and often enigmatic moment from John 20:17. This encounter between Jesus and Mary Magdalene, with the powerful phrase “touch me not,” holds deep significance for our faith, revealing layers of spiritual ascension and inspiring creative worship. Let’s explore how this post-resurrection moment impacts our creative faith and spiritual understanding.
John 20:17 (NIV)
Jesus said to her, ‘Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’
Table of Contents
Resurrection Moment
John 20:17 captures a pivotal moment in Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the resurrected Jesus. Her initial reaction, likely a mix of overwhelming joy and disbelief, prompts Jesus’s seemingly abrupt command, “Touch me not.” This isn’t a rejection, but a redirection, a shift from earthly clinging to spiritual understanding. This resurrection encounter marks a turning point, not only for Mary but for all believers. It highlights the transition from physical presence to spiritual ascension.
“Touch Me Not” Explained
Jesus’s words, “for I have not yet ascended to the Father,” reveal a critical aspect of his post-resurrection state. He was transitioning to a new form of existence, a spiritual ascension that would open the way for the Holy Spirit’s indwelling. This wasn’t about physical distance, but about a spiritual shift. This directive unveils a deeper Easter revelation. Understanding the “touch me not” moment, helps us understand the spiritual ascension.
Mary Magdalene’s Shift
Mary’s journey in this encounter is a powerful example of spiritual growth. She moved from clinging to Jesus in her familiar, earthly understanding, to becoming a witness, a messenger of the resurrection. This transformation demonstrates the power of a resurrection encounter to shift our perspectives and call us to a new purpose. Mary Magdalene’s role shifts and she becomes a vital part of the Easter revelation.
Creative Worship
How do we respond to such a profound revelation? Creative worship, in its many forms, becomes a powerful expression of our awe and gratitude. Whether through song, art, writing, or dance, we can channel our resurrection encounter into creative acts that honor God. This post-resurrection moment inspires creative worship.
Easter Revelation: A New Way
The “touch me not” moment, and the subsequent commission to Mary, reveal a new way of being for believers. We are called to live in the reality of the resurrection, to embrace the spiritual ascension, and to share the good news with others. This Easter revelation is the foundation of our faith.
Living It Out John 20:17
Let’s explore how we can apply the lessons of John 20:17 in our lives:
- Reflection Journaling: Spend time journaling about your own encounters with the risen Christ. Reflect on moments when you felt a shift from earthly understanding to spiritual awareness.
- Creative Worship: Express your gratitude for the resurrection through a creative act. Write a song, paint a picture, or create a piece of art that reflects your understanding of John 20:17.
- Witnessing: Share your resurrection story with others. Find creative ways to communicate the hope and joy of Easter.
- Meditative Prayer: Spend time in meditative prayer, focusing on the spiritual ascension of Jesus. Ask God to reveal new insights into this profound moment.
Free Creative Resources
Creative Jesus Girl is all about encouraging your faith walk and equipping your creative journey. And friends, I am excited about my newest series Free Lent Creatives, now available! All tailored for our Journey Through Lent: 40 Days from Ashes to Alleluia—download them now! You’ll find them on the menu above or just click the link above. Think beautifully designed Journaling, Prayer, Note, Scripture, Bible Study Cards, Mini Bible Journaling, and Scripture Kits – all created to help you grow this Lenten Season.
Download your freebies now and let’s journey through Lent together! I’d love to see how you’re using them. Share your insights and creations with #CreativeJesusGirl – I can’t wait to see your faith shine! Want even more? Explore my full Scripture Journaling Kits over on my Patreon for past kits, or grab the full Scripture Journaling Kit for your Lenten deep dive. These are yours to enjoy, beautiful souls—let’s create and grow together!
Prayer for John 20:17
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the powerful encounter between Jesus and Mary Magdalene, and the revelation of spiritual ascension. Lord, help us to understand the significance of the “touch me not” moment, and to embrace the new way of being that it reveals. Empower us to move from earthly clinging to spiritual witnessing, and to express our gratitude through creative worship. As we celebrate Easter, fill our hearts with the joy and hope of the resurrection.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Connect & Reflect
John 20:17 is a reminder that our faith is not bound by earthly limitations, but transcends into the realm of spiritual ascension. Let’s embrace this Easter revelation and allow it to transform our lives and creative expressions.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this encounter. Please share your reflections in the comments below. Share with a friend—hit those social buttons! Tag @CreativeJesusGirl on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, TikTok, Twitter, Reddit, and LinkedIn with #CreativeJesusGirl for more faith-filled encouragement. I’m Debbie, a Jesus girl living for Him and sharing my creative faith—have a peek or join us on Patreon! May the joy of the resurrection fill your hearts this Easter season.
