Today is April 22nd.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.   
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”    
   
Today’s reading is from the book of John, chapter 12.  
 

Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.  

But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.  

“Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”  

  
Take some time to play this scene back in your mind, at least what you remember of it. Maybe imagine yourself in the room as you watch this scene unfold. You see Jesus, and Martha and Lazarus. And you smell the food. You see a beautiful scene of worship as Mary washes Jesus’ feet with her hair. Then you see Judas. Notice your interior movement to what’s happening during this exchange. 
   
I notice how Jesus acts in a kind and protective way toward Mary. He’s the guest of honor, a person with power in that space. And in this moment, he uses that privilege to tell Judas to “leave Mary alone”.  Imagine how it would have felt for her to first hear Judas’ critique. And then imagine what it’d have been like to hear Jesus’ words of protection spoken over her.
   
Do you ever forget that Jesus of Nazareth was a man? God in the flesh, yes. But also... Jesus of Nazareth. A carpenter. Leader of a small movement. In this scene there is much to notice but I notice the protective, big-brother-ness of Jesus. It reminds me of how he treated the woman caught in adultery. With dignity. Jesus is a remarkable example of walking in both confidence and strength and humility and kindness. As you end your time of prayer today, consider the strength of Jesus... and where you might use your own strength to serve God, and protect the vulnerable.

Lord God, Almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.   
 
Music:  "Among the Poor" - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)