The Monday of Holy Week
April 03, 2023
John 12:1-11
Jesus begins the end of his ministry on earth with his final walk toward Jerusalem. This is his time to say farewell to his closest friends. Gathered around the supper table are his friends Martha, Mary, Lazarus, and probably some if not all his disciples. We are told that Judas is among those at the table. In a few days this supper will be followed by sharing a Last Supper with his disciples. It’s a time of both celebration and goodbyes. The main people mentioned are Martha, Mary, Lazarus, and Judas.
Each person in this account continues to demonstrate their behavior that is seen in earlier parts of the gospels. Martha is a person with the gift of hospitality but is easily distracted by all that she must do (Luke 10:38-42). She once complained to Jesus that her sister Mary wasn’t helping with the work. Jesus emphasizes to Martha the importance of listening to him. Martha continues to serve as hostess and ministers to Jesus with the gift of hospitality that is hers. We assume that she has listened and learned from the words of Jesus.
Mary stops and listens leading for a deeper understanding. Perhaps she instinctively knew that this would be the last time that she had dinner with Jesus. She anoints him before his death with costly perfume. Mary understands the deeper meaning of the anointing while the disciples are slow to understand.
Judas continues his role of criticizing. He criticizes the use of expensive perfume, but Jesus is quick to acknowledge and honor Mary and those who honor him. Judas fails to understand the teachings of Jesus and looks forward to a messiah who will conquer the Romans. This leads to his ultimate betrayal.
Lazarus’ death and resurrection is a forerunner of Jesus death and resurrection. The presence of Lazarus is a testimony to remind us that even in death we are given life anew. Like Jesus, the chief priests also wanted to kill him.
The characteristics of each person in this narrative remind me of parts of myself. Like Martha I am often distracted by all that I must do. My criticism of those that I do not agree with reminds me of those traits in Judas. Like Mary I endeavor to find time to stop and listen to what Jesus has to tell me. Lazarus stands as a testimony to all of us that as Job says “I know that my Redeemer lives…Job 19:25).
Betty Beale