Resurrection of Christ and the Women at the Tomb (detail), Fra Angelico

THEY ARRIVED on the early morning of that world-changing day. They came with precious spices to dress the body of the deceased, as was the ancient custom. They were so motivated in this task they did not consider in advance how they would roll away the enormous stone placed at the mouth of the tomb. How like women to fail to think of this.

Men cowered and hid behind closed doors.

Others feared for their safety.

They were not deterred by the risks. They were not afraid of being associated with a convicted political criminal, even one who had been executed.

And what a turn of events! The stone was already removed.

And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed with a white robe: and they were astonished.

“He is not here.”

This caused them fear at last.

God could have revealed the Resurrection to men, in keeping with those times and that place, where women did not hold positions of public power or authority. He chose to reveal it to women first. How paradoxical. How meaningful.

Their greatness consisted in their determination to proceed with a practical, private step to honor the dead, rather than in swashbuckling action. Their greatness was in their devotion. Their monumental place in history began in the invisible depth of their hearts.

The beauty of their souls illuminates the darkness still.

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