Our chapter begins in a home in Bethany of Judea just before the Passover celebration takes place in Jerusalem. Jesus is there with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary, the latter of which washes the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume and with her hair, a decidedly lavish and humble act. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, the chief priests plot to kill Lazarus because he is evidence of Christ’s power and authority. Later, Jesus enters Jerusalem with great fanfare as the crowds greet him with excitement and anticipation. While Jesus prophecies of his coming execution, God the Father speaks to Jesus audibly so that the crowd might hear. Our reading concludes with a summary of Jesus’ mission.