There are so many of us that it is easy to get us confused. I am normally called by my husband’s name; the wife of Clopas.

I am a follower of Jesus. I am proud to be identified with him. I was proud to stand by his cross, to take him to the tomb, and I was proud to go with his mother, another Mary and Mary of Magdala to the tomb early on what has become the first day of the week.

You see I am proud to be his Aunt, I watched him grow up. Clopas was Joseph’s brother. I was involved in the beginning when stories were swirling about when Mary had become pregnant. She told me everything. Joseph told Clopas everything – well in a silent masculine sort of way. So I actually I knew more than most. One thing is for sure, Joseph loved Mary’s firstborn to bits. You would never ever have known. But that is another story.

What was going to happen in Jerusalem was always going to happen. Jesus was an intelligent man. He knew that his actions would cause concern. I am not saying the family approved of all he did, Jacob and Joses, his brothers did not; although Jacob has changed his tune now. But that is his story. I think Aunts can be a little more distant and weigh things up a little more impartially.

Nevertheless, it was the worst day of my life watching him die. He seemed in control, which I suppose was odd really. It was the worst day possible for his Mother, and to do it without the support of Joseph of blessed memory and of her children. I think they will be slightly ashamed of themselves now; I hope so, if they do not want to feel the force of my tongue.

She had told me of the time when Jesus was dedicated, and an old priest, Simon or perhaps Simeon was his name, had told her that the child she cradled would cause her pain as if sword were to pierce her soul. I think it was far worse than that. Imagine watching helpless, as your child dies.

He was brave – you would not have known it though by the look of him. He was not that attractive at all.

Then we buried him and waited.

I would like to say I knew it all along; but even favourite Aunts don’t know everything.

The tomb was empty.

His grave clothes were folded up neatly. Joseph had always insisted he tidied up after himself.

Then Mary of Magdala said she has seen him.

Clopas and our friend Jairus when off to Emmaus. I stayed with Mary.

The men were back – they had seen him

Peter said he had seen him too.

and Mary saw him. That was a nice touch.

I never did. But I know it to be true.

I cannot stop any more, I have to be about the father’s business. That was something he said to his mum a long time ago.