In Memory of Her

In Memory of Her

Original still available: Acrylic on Composite Wood, 40” x 36”, $5,000 Original

My latest painting depicts a story wherein Magdalene anoints Jesus with an entire bottle of spikenard. She did this as Jesus and his disciples were eating, at her family’s home, in Bethany. Her brother Lazarus was present, as was her sister Martha. Some of the disciples protested her gesture as being wasteful, saying the precious oil could have been sold to feed the poor. But Jesus came to her defense and said, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."

I believe Jesus loved Magdalene deeply, and that they both sensed his impending death. What a horrible vision to hold in ones heart, and what a perfect expression of love she bestowed on him. Historically Magdalene is often shown holding an anointing jar. It is one of her defining symbols. She was most likely a priestess, and teacher in her own right. However, as is the case with many of the stories about her in the Bible if she is mentioned at all, she is often referred to as being “a woman” or worse, “a sinful woman.” My people believe this is done in an effort to diminish her stature and importance. It’s time to correct that lie. She was certainly someone who loved Jesus, and someone who he treasured.

My thanks to my dear friends, and scholars, Beth Maczka, and Kayleen Asbo, for repeatedly asking me to paint this image. And also to my dear friend, and death doula, Meredith Melvin, and her partner, and tea master, Taylor, for being my models.