There is a story in John’s gospel where Jesus gathers for dinner at the home of Lazarus, whom he raised from the dead, and his sisters Martha and Mary. It is just a few days before Jesus is betrayed, tried and put to death. Martha waits at table, Lazarus is part of the group dining, and Mary brings an expensive jar of perfume which she uses to anoint Jesus’ feet, wiping them with her hair.

Judas is also there, and he objects to using the perfume in this way when it could have been sold to help the poor. John’s editorial comments tell us that Judas’ true concern is for the cash he takes from the shared funds of Jesus and his follower, and not for the poor after all.

This story engages so many senses. We imagine the smell of the meal, the sounds of people talking together around the table, the clatter of dishes, the smell of the perfume, and the touch of Mary’s hands and hair on Jesus’ feet. We feel the interpersonal tension as Judas scolds Mary, as well as Jesus, for not thinking of the poor.

Jesus responds to Judas’ criticism in a somewhat surprising way. He makes reference to his coming death and burial, which we know will be followed by the resurrection, defeating evil and death. But Jesus also says that we will “always have the poor” with us.

Judas has offered a forced choice. A false one.

Mary’s anointing points to Jesus as savior of the world. She shows her devotion, her faithfulness and her love through this excessive act. We do not have to choose between devotion to God and care for the poor. We can be both committed to God and concerned for those in need. We act out our love for God by the ways we care for the needs of those around us. We live our faith by tending to God’s creatures and creation. In the absence of Jesus actual feet to anoint and wipe, we tenderly care for our neighbor, who is God’s beloved child.  (John 12:1-8)

Prayer

Gracious God,

Help me to see how to live my love for you.

Help me to reach out to the poor and feed them.

Help me to reach out to the grieving and comfort them.

Help me to reach out to the lost and guide them.

Help me to reach out to the lonely and befriend them.

Show me how to care for your beloved world.

Amen.