# Mary Anoints Jesus – A Monday of Holy Week Reflection
*2015-03-29*

> Bill Young reflects on John 12:1‑8, where Mary anoints Jesus with costly perfume, and explores the contrast between her love and Judas’ greed during Holy Week.

## Scripture Reading

John 12:1‑8 tells us that six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. A dinner was prepared for Him; Martha served, and Lazarus was among those reclining at the table. Mary took a pound of very costly perfume, made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

Judas, one of the disciples, objected, saying, “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” He was not truly concerned for the poor; he was a thief who kept the common purse and used it for his own gain.

## Jesus’ Response

Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She has done a beautiful thing for Me. It will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world.” He added, “The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have Me.”

Jesus affirms Mary’s act of love and points to its lasting spiritual significance, while also reminding the disciples of the ever‑present need for the poor.

## Reflection on the Tension

The scene shows the tension that can arise even among close friends of Jesus. While Mary’s devotion is pure, Judas’ greed reveals the ugliness that can infiltrate the table of hospitality. The Pharisees already see Jesus as a threat to their authority, and Judas’ betrayal is a further step toward the Passion.

Mary’s faithful service contrasts sharply with Judas’ selfishness. Yet Jesus remains resolute, accepting the love offered to Him without allowing the criticism of others to deter Him.

## Application for Our Lives

We are invited to examine how we respond to acts of love and generosity. Do we, like Judas, focus on the monetary value and criticize the giver, or do we, like Jesus, recognize the deeper significance of the offering? Let us strive to be open to the gifts of love that come to us, even when they challenge our expectations.

*True devotion, like Mary’s, leaves a lasting fragrance that points us to Christ, no matter the criticism around us.*