Mary Magdalene and Simple Goodness

July 22 marks the Feast of Saint Mary Magdalene. She is no longer saddled with the mistaken identity of Prostitute. Hers is a story of torment, forgiveness and is key in understanding Christ.

We know that Mary was most likely from a thriving fishing town on the coast of Galilee, Magdala. It was common in Biblical Times for people to be linked to their home town. Jesus of Nazareth, Simon of Cyrene, Mary of Bethany. Mary Magdalene was probably known as Mary of Magdala, eventually evolving into Mary Magdalene.

There is no Biblical references suggesting that Mary Magdalene was a prostitute. We do know that Mary was set free of torment when Jesus cast out 7 demons. It was easy for men to make the connection – even possession must be due to an evil life. Surly prostitution, adultery and sexual immorality led to her possession. However; Mary could have suffered from mental illness, or epilepsy or a number of other conditions that were believed to be a sign of demonic activity. Regardless, she was healed of all her afflictions by Christ Jesus.

It’s interesting to note that of the many people Christ healed throughout His ministry, Mary is among a handful that we know by name. It points to her importance, and to how Christ viewed woman. Mary is mentioned by name 12 times. Unlike other women in Scripture, she is not linked to any other person such as wife of, daughter of, mother of. Mary is simply a follower of Christ. Mary was considered a leader within the community, leading by example of her dedication to Jesus.

Many of Christ’s revelations were to women. His miracles were shared with women. It was women who showed strength by staying at his feet at the cross. Women, in particular Mary Magdalene, brought the Good News of the Risen Lord to the world.

Men may think they are in charge. Women of faith know better.

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Today on the National Front, it’s Hot Dog Day. As far as I’m concerned, you can never have too many good Hot Dog recipes. Enjoy!

Chicago Style Hot Dog Sandwich
Spicy Pickled Poppy Seed Relish
4 Dill Pickle Spear, diced
4 Pickled Jalapeno Peppers, thinly sliced
2 tablespoon Sweet Pickle Relish
1-1/2 teaspoons Poppy Seeds

Dice pickle spears and place in a medium bowl. Thinly slice peppers, add to the pickle spears. Stir in sweet relish and poppy seeds. Set aside for flavors to merge and mingle.

Note: Authentic Chicago Dogs call for Sport Peppers, which are slender pickled peppers, typically Serrano Peppers. Sport Peppers aren’t always available at your grocery store. However; Pickled Jalapeno Peppers are. If you can find Sport Peppers, it would keep your Sandwich “real” but if not, go with the Jalapenos.

Chicago Dogs
1 Beefsteak Tomato
1 White Onion
8 Kosher All-Beef Hot Dogs
1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil
8 slices White Bread
Yellow Mustard as desired
Celery Salt to taste

Slice Beefsteak Tomato, set aside. Peel and cut onion in half from root to tip. Thinly slice into half-moon rings, break apart and set aside. Cut Hot Dogs in half lengthwise. Set aside.

Heat a large skillet or griddle to medium-high. Add oil. Once hot, add hot dogs, cut-side down, and cook about 3 minutes, until the exterior begins to brown. Turn skin-side down and continue to cook until blistered.

Spread mustard on each slice of bread. Spread spicy relish on 4 slices. Place hot dogs on top of relish, followed by sliced tomato and sliced onion. Season with celery salt. Top with remaining mustard smeared bread slices, serve and enjoy.