Monday of Holy Week

Reflection

In John’s gospel we meet Jesus who has come from his triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Jesus knows that the praise and adulation of Palm Sunday will soon turn into the daunting shouts of Good Friday: Crucify Him! Crucify Him!

It’s no wonder then that Jesus seeks the comfort of his beloved friends at their home in Bethany. He comes once again to be with Lazarus whom he has raised from the dead, and Martha who has the gift of hospitality. And notably, he comes also to be with their sister Mary. We learn that Mary has listened at the feet of Jesus and been deeply transformed by his teachings.

In an abundance of love and grace, Mary pours out the gift of precious oil to anoint her beloved savior. In her action we see the prefiguring of the unmeasured love of Jesus which will be poured out upon the cross. Like Jesus, Mary of Bethany will not stop to count the cost of the love she gives.

Judas Iscariot is also present and calls Mary to task for not measuring the cost of what she has given. Jesus comes to Mary’s defense. He affirms the goodness of Mary’s outpouring and anticipates his own death and anointing. Mary has again chosen the better way.

In this household in Bethany we meet a full spectrum of those whom Jesus has called to himself. They offer models for us to reflect upon in our own spiritual journeys. They invite us to examine our own level of conversion to the teachings and will of Jesus. Is our conversion fulfilled as it is with Lazarus who has been called back to life? Do we struggle with conditions we create like Martha? Are we trapped by our selfishness and greed like Judas? Are we like the anxious crowd that wants to silence Jesus? Or like Mary of Bethany are we able to open our hearts to love Jesus without weighing the cost?

Prayer

Jesus, be a frequent guest in our homes. Open our hearts to be transformed by your words and your love. Prepare us in this holy week that we may stay awake with you in the garden at Gethsemane. Amen.

Jackie Lawson, MA ’89
Worshipping Community

Scripture

First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-7
Psalm 27:1-3, 13-14
Gospel: John 12:1-11

Daily Scripture readings can be found online at the USCCB website