In a YouTube interview, author Amy Frykholm speaks of Saint Mary of Egypt, a woman whose radical transformation serves as a powerful symbol of repentance. Once living a life of extreme indulgence, Mary experienced a spiritual awakening when she found herself mysteriously barred from entering a church in Jerusalem. It was only after a deep realization of her own sinfulness and a heartfelt prayer to the Virgin Mary that the invisible barrier lifted, allowing her in. This moment of surrender and recognition marked a turning point, not just for her life, but as a lasting image of grace found through humility.
The metaphor of the “doorway” becomes central. Mary’s story, read during Holy Week in Orthodox tradition, is a reminder that the spiritual doors we try to force open—whether through ego, control, or desperation—often remain shut until we learn to surrender. We all encounter these thresholds: past trauma, spiritual pride, disappointment, or unforgiveness that block our growth in Christ. Sometimes we remain stuck, unable or unwilling to see that what we perceive as obstacles might be divine invitations to transformation.
As Holy Week unfolds, we’re invited to reflect on the doors in our own lives, like Peter and Judas each facing their own spiritual thresholds. Peter’s transformation comes through failure and love; Judas, tragically, cannot see that his own failure could be a doorway to grace. Like Mary of Egypt, may we come to the end of our striving and find ourselves face to face with Love itself—seen in the eyes of Christ and Our Lady. In that gaze, may our shadows be revealed not for shame, but for healing, and may we have the courage to step through into new life.