Lenten Devotion for Monday, March 29

Today's lessons:

Isaiah 42:1-9

Psalm 36:5-11

Hebrews 9:11-15

John 12:1-11

Author:

Amanda Freier

Intern, Bethany Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake    

Theme verses:

John 12:1-3, 7-8 - Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.  There they gave a dinner for him.  Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him.  Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair.  The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume . . . Jesus said, ‘Leave her alone.  She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.  You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.’

Meditation:

During our Lenten drama this year, I have been playing the part of Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus. While I might be more familiar with the role of Martha, I have been moved by Mary’s anointing of Jesus’ feet.   

I was reminded of Maundy Thursday services as I pretended to wash Jesus’ feet during our drama.  Taking another’s foot, touching, washing, and anointing- and then pulling my hair out from my scarf to wipe his feet. 

When I acted out this scene, I could not help but imagine what humility, honor, fear, love, and respect Mary and all those around her would have experienced.  

Did Mary understand the significance and beauty of this act of anointing Jesus’ feet?  I am curious to know what she was thinking, but I can imagine the love she felt from Jesus as he spoke in her defense, thanking her for the loving expression of generous anointing.  

As we journey through each day this week, may we ponder the wonder of Christ’s journey to the cross.  Imagine the tremendous cost, the extravagant grace, and unbelievable love. 

Dwell in the thoughts, emotions, scents, and sights of this significant and holy week.  

Prayer:

Christ, may your presence in our lives be as pervasive as the fragrance of a perfume that fills a house.  Anoint us to serve you God, and be with us this Holy Week as we daily journey with you.  Amen.