John 12:1-8

 

I am humbled by Mary’s act of extravagant love for Jesus. Without regard for criticism or ridicule she expresses her love for Jesus by anointing his feet with expensive perfume and wiping his feet with her hair.

Mary is courageous in her willingness to assume the role of a disciple. When Jesus is invited into the home of Mary and her sister Martha, for a meal it is Mary who ignores the task of meal preparation to sit at the feet of Jesus and learn from him. It is considered the role of a male disciple, but Mary is less concerned with social expectations than being committed to Jesus.

When Martha challenges Mary for her lack of help in the kitchen, Jesus gently informs Martha that Mary has taken the more vital role, which will not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:38-42)

Jesus affirmed Mary’s act of anointing his feet. He did not diminish the need to care for the poor, but in the last days of his earthly life, he understood the depth of Mary’s love for him and the immediacy of his sacrificial death.

At the beginning of Holy Week I am humbled by Mary’s expression of extravagant love for Jesus. I wonder of I am that courageous. . .