The answer is: False

John 20:15 - She thought he was a gardener

Ah, the Easter frenzy! Misunderstandings can be part of astonishing moments, and Mary Magdalene's encounter post-resurrection exemplifies this. When she met Jesus by the empty tomb, she mistook him for a gardener, not a Roman soldier, which introduces a fascinating layer in her story. Picture it: early in the morning, fresh dawn breaking, a misty garden landscape, representing both grief and renewal.

Mary’s mistake now echoes a rich tradition in the Bible where misunderstandings serve divine purpose. Take the famous tale of the travelers on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35), who didn’t recognize Jesus until he broke bread with them. These instances invite us to consider how often we might not recognize profound truths right in front of us, whether due to grief, misunderstanding, or the human penchant for expectation.

Did you know that Mary is often referred to as "the apostle to the apostles"? This title highlights her vital role in the resurrection narrative, commissioned by the risen Christ to be the first to announce his return. She's a hero of courage in a world that often tries to silence women's voices.

And there's more! In John 20:17, Jesus calls her by name, "Mary," which is so poignant. It signifies transformation from despair to hope, emphasizing that truly seeing recognized love opens us to new realities. This resonating moment illustrates our own journeys from loss to joy – always inviting us to reevaluate what we see and believe.