How does it feel to be criticized? Often it can sting a little or maybe even make us mad. Sometimes it depends on how the criticism was delivered. Delivered alone and in a positive attitude, criticism can be good. But criticism delivered in a harsh way, in front of other people or in a crowd, can be demeaning and maybe even angering, sometimes evoking a reciprocal response. It may want us to give it back to them.

Jesus, his disciples and some friends were at a house in Bethany having dinner. It was within days of Jesus being betrayed, arrested and then crucified. A woman, believed to be Mary, the sister of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead, was there. She performed an act of pure love and sacrifice to Jesus. She was criticized and rebuked harshly in front of all. What she said after this public open admonishment at a dinner is a lesson for us all.