HOLY WEEK MEDITATIONS | Tuesday: "The Anointing at Bethany" Matthew 26: 6-13 | Tuesday, April 12, 2022

The Anointing at Bethany - Matthew 26: 6-13 (NRSV)
6 Now while Jesus was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very costly ointment, and she poured it on his head as he sat at the table. 8 But when the disciples saw it, they were angry and said, “Why this waste? 9 For this ointment could have been sold for a large sum, and the money given to the poor.” 10 But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? She has performed a good service for me. 11 For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. 12 By pouring this ointment on my body she has prepared me for burial. 13 Truly I tell you, wherever this good news is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in remembrance of her.”

*Moment of Reflection: *
The disciples’ reaction seems completely understandable here. Their anger seems righteous. Why would this woman waste expensive ointment when the money could be used to help those in need? It seems they have been listening to Jesus. However, they did not understand what was happening. This woman is paying attention to Jesus’ presence in the moment. She is preparing his body for burial. So often, there is not just one right way to do things. We must pay attention to Jesus’ presence in each moment and look for guidance to where he may be leading—sometimes even in unexpected ways.

*Question for Reflection: *
In what ways can you focus your mind and heart this week to be more aware of Jesus’ presence and guidance?

*Prayer: *
Lord, we often get caught up in our circumstances and situations and don’t take the time to look at the bigger picture or see things from your perspective. Help us to focus on your presence in our lives in each moment and to follow your lead even when it’s unexpected. Amen.