In John, Mary loved on Jesus lavishly. She gave something so precious, so costly, so sacrificial. Anyone watching could feel the holiness, tenderness, and intimacy in the wordless exchange between Jesus and Mary.
In John, Mary loved on Jesus lavishly. She gave something so precious, so costly, so sacrificial. Anyone watching could feel the holiness, tenderness, and intimacy in the wordless exchange between Jesus and Mary. Jesus felt seen, valued, and worshipped. Mary felt full in every ounce of her being. Somehow this was a moment and place she wish she could never leave. I am not sure what thoughts were going through the minds of the onlookers-but we don't need to wonder at what was going on through Judas' mind.
"Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?"
Shame covered Mary as the last cruel words left his lips. Stupid. Wasteful. Ignorant. Useless. Worthless. These words about her identity and worth slowly wrapped around her heart like thorns.
And this is the heart and spirit of religion. To see the law. The "right" and "wrong". To see the outward actions assuming selfish motives and intentions. Judgement. Arrogance. Criticism. Scorn. The one judging placing her/himself in a self righteous throne. AND. IT. IS. EVIL. It cuts and bruises and shames. The perspective? How everyone is speaking, and behaving in a wrong way. No grace. No mercy. No love. Cold. Harsh. Not even coming close to the true heart and love of God.
Let's watch what Jesus does and says.
"Leave her alone." He stands up to the bully for Mary. He justifies her actions. What we are not able to read is the exchange that happened unspoken between them. When their eyes met. Something that Judas never was able to understand. Mercy, love, grace and incredible tenderness. Thank you for loving me so well Mary. Your gift means so much to me. But what is more lovely than your perfume is your heart. Thank you for being so vulnerable with me. Thank you for not just going through the motions of the "righteous deeds" but being alive and risky with your passions, desires and heart.
Thank you for letting me pour life into you as you pour your perfume at my feel. You are enough. You are dearly loved, seen, and known.
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