The New Commandment of Love

Reflections on Maundy Thursday

On Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter Sunday, we as Christians pause to reflect on the profound significance of this sacred day. It marks the Last Supper of Jesus with his disciples, a momentous occasion when he imparted a new commandment that continues to resonate through the ages—The New Commandment of Love.

Derived from the Latin word "mandatum," meaning commandment, Maundy Thursday takes its name from Jesus' words in John 13:34-35:

"A new commandment I give to you, That you love one another; as I have loved you. By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."

These words, spoken by Jesus in his final moments with his disciples, encapsulate the essence of Christian discipleship—love. But what makes this commandment new?

In the context of first-century Judaism, adherence to religious laws and regulations often overshadowed the true essence of faith. Jesus' new commandment revolutionized the religious landscape by emphasizing the primacy of love as the fulfillment of the law. Love, Jesus declared, would be the distinguishing mark of his followers, transcending cultural, social, and religious boundaries.

The depth of Jesus' commandment of love is underscored by his actions during the Last Supper. Despite knowing that Judas would betray him and Peter would deny him, Jesus humbly washed the feet of his disciples—a powerful symbol of servanthood and humility. Through this act, he demonstrated that true greatness lies in serving others and set an example for his disciples to follow.

Moreover, Jesus instituted the sacrament of communion during the Last Supper, symbolizing his body and blood given for the forgiveness of sins. This act of self-sacrifice exemplifies the essence of love—laying down one's life for others (John 15:13).

As we commemorate Maundy Thursday, let us reflect on the significance of Jesus' new commandment of love and its enduring relevance in our lives today. Let us heed his call to love one another fervently and selflessly, following his example of humility and service.

In a world marred by division, hatred, and strife, the commandment of love stands as a beacon of hope and reconciliation. It challenges us to transcend differences, extend compassion to all, and work towards building a more just and equitable society.

As we partake in communion and remember Jesus' sacrificial love, may we be inspired to live out his teachings in our daily lives. Let us strive to be instruments of peace, reconciliation, and love, bearing witness to the transformative power of Christ's love in our world.

On Maundy Thursday we remember Jesus invites us to embrace the new commandment of love and embody its principles in our interactions with others. As we follow Jesus' example of humility, service, and sacrificial love, may we shine as beacons of God's love and grace in a world longing for healing and redemption.

Soli Deo Gloria

Journeying Towards the Light

Reflections on Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday is not merely a date on the liturgical calendar; it is a profound moment that resonates deeply within the hearts of believers worldwide. It commemorates Jesus Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, an event laden with symbolism, prophecy, and profound implications for humanity. As we reflect on this pivotal moment in Christian history, we are invited to embark on a spiritual journey towards understanding the significance of Palm Sunday and its enduring relevance in our lives today.

The biblical narrative of Palm Sunday unfolds with Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, greeted by throngs of people waving palm branches and shouting "Hosanna!" (John’s 12:12-13). This imagery evokes a sense of triumph and celebration, as Jesus is hailed as the long-awaited Messiah, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. Yet, beneath the surface of this jubilant scene lies a deeper truth—one of humility, sacrifice, and divine purpose.

Jesus's choice of transportation, a donkey, carries profound symbolism. It represents humility and peace, in contrast to the image of a conquering king riding on a horse. By entering Jerusalem in this manner, Jesus conveys a powerful message about the nature of his Kingdom—a Kingdom built on love, righteousness, and redemption. His actions speak volumes about his character as a compassionate and merciful Savior, rather than a worldly monarch seeking power and dominion.

As we immerse ourselves in the narrative of Palm Sunday, we are confronted with the paradox of Jesus's mission. While hailed as a king by the crowds, Jesus is acutely aware of the path that lies ahead—the path of suffering, rejection, and ultimately, crucifixion (Mark 10:33-34). His journey to the cross is a testament to his unwavering commitment to fulfilling the will of God and offering salvation to humanity (Psalm 118:25-26).

In the midst of the festive atmosphere of Palm Sunday, we encounter the profound tension between triumph and sacrifice, between earthly acclaim and divine destiny. Jesus's willingness to embrace the cross, despite knowing the pain and anguish it entails, underscores the depth of his love for humanity. It is a love that transcends human understanding, a love that willingly lays down its life for the sake of others (Philippians 2:5-8).

As we meditate on the significance of Palm Sunday, we are invited to examine our own hearts and lives in light of Jesus's example. Are we willing to surrender our pride, our ambitions, and our desires for power, in order to follow the path of humility and servanthood laid out by Christ? Are we prepared to take up our cross and follow him, even when the journey is difficult and fraught with challenges?

Palm Sunday serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of Christ's love and the promise of redemption that he offers to all who believe. It is a call to embrace the light of Christ, to walk in his footsteps, and to allow his love to illuminate our lives and guide our paths. As we journey towards the light of Easter morning, may we find hope, strength, and renewal in the enduring message of Palm Sunday—the message of a Savior who humbly rides into our hearts, offering us the gift of eternal life.

Hosanna in the highest!

Soli Deo Gloria

Sorrow Joy Becomes

“Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.”

‭‭John‬ ‭16:20‬ 

Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.

‭‭John‬ ‭16:22‬ 

As servants of God…we are sorrowful but always rejoicing. That’s the way life is. It maybe dark now but light is coming very soon. Jesus assures us (John 16:20) that our sorrow shall be turned into joy. When we enter the homes of Christians we are often fascinated by the Christian art they display on their walls and display cases. Most often it is a cross in some form we see. The cross is one keepsake we turn to in times of brokenness, conflict and loss. We turn to the cross as our thoughts turn to the inner sanctum of our hearts where the presence or strength of Christ in us dwells, in whom our restless lives find quiet rest as we say a short prayer for strength. It is often in those moments we are surprised by joy with a comforting or empowering word that lifts our spirits.

The period of Lent for us, has been an inward journey of prayer and reflection. We remembered how low our world sank to crucify our Messiah and King. A time we sacrificed some of our luxuries and distractions as we to drew near to the passion of Christ. The last week of lent is the most enduring as we read the gospels and gained fresh insight into the sacrifices Christ made on our behalf.

As Easter approaches some of us may be in the darkness of a crisis. Some others may be under the shadow of the death of a dearly loved one. There are others who are in the midst of persecution, civil unrest, terrorist attacks, torn by conflicts, facing homelessness, fighting human trafficking, the list is endless; what good is rejoicing at Easter when there is so much of evil all around us? Do we see them as the broken body of Christ? Do we see the face of the suffering Christ in them?

Today I am reminded of the poem “Surprised by Joy” written by William Wordsworth two years after the loss of his four-year-old daughter. His Spiritual barrenness for her is as fresh as the day she died. He cries out, “How could I forget thee?” Wordsworth portrays the coexistence of joy and sorrow as he titled his poem “Surprised by Joy.” I am fascinated by this poem as it is a lament beautifully written that expresses grief and loss. If we live in our own shadows, common sense says that we will never see the light. Yet the combination of the Title and the lament, Wordsworth beautifully describes to us as a cryptic message of being sorrowful yet rejoicing (2 Corinthians 6:10). For Wordsworth the joy that surprised him is the steadfast love of God that fills him with the hope that he will see the heavenly face of his daughter again(2 Corinthians 4:17).

Surprised by joy – impatient as the Wind
I turned to share the transport – Oh! with whom
But Thee, deep buried in the silent tomb,
That spot which no vicissitude can find?
Love, faithful love, recalled thee to my mind

But how could I forget thee? Through what power,
Even for the least division of an hour,
Have I been so beguiled as to be blind
To my most grievous loss? – That thought’s return
Was the worst pang that sorrow ever bore,
Save one, one only, when I stood forlorn,
Knowing my heart’s best treasure was no more

That neither present time, nor years unborn 

Could to my sight that heavenly face restore. 

For those who are presently blessed abundantly spiritually and materially by the grace of God, we set out on an outward journey to reach out to those who are suffering and in harms way. To those of us who are strong in Christ, we are called to be a source of support and instill hope to those who mourn. 

Let us keep them in our prayers and remind them by the grace of God we are all alive in Christ (Ephesians 2:5). Let us never forget in Christ we have all been richly blessed with eternal life (John 11:25). We reflect on the agony and suffering of Jesus through lent, but rejoice as Easter comes upon us. The resurrection of Christ brings us much joy, so will we on the final day rejoice with our Lord and Savior (John 14:1-4).

Prayer:- Lord Jesus as our period of Lent comes to an end, we thank you for being with us through this journey. Instill in us a deep sense of remembrance of your broken body for us. By your death we have all become a part of your body.Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

New Commandment

Mandatum novum

A new commandment I give you, That you love one another; as I have loved you. By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.  John 13:34-35

Maundy Thursday is the Thursday before the Easter. It derived its name from the latin word mandatum. It is the first word of the phrase “Mandatum novum do vobis ut diligatis invicem sicut dilexi vos.” These were his last words of instructions found in John 13:34 to his disciples before he went to his death.

So was this a new commandment? Moses had already handed down the 10 commandments. But over 1000 years the Jews of Jesus day as Philip Yancy says, had identified 613 major laws from the Old Testament and accepted more than a thousand governing behavior just on the Sabbath. This Yancy said led to a pride in keeping the law. Which in the end rarely led to inner peace or love for one another. 

Could the common man keep track of all these laws? Jesus came to show us a new way where we were free to love and care for one another. Jesus was emphasizing to his disciples that he wanted the primary mark of distinction for his disciples to be their deep love for one another. Our love for one another should be faithful and sincere.

Is it not ironical that before he gave the new commandment, he had already told the disciples that Judas was going to betray him? Just after he gave the commandment he told Peter he would deny him three times. The ones Jesus was giving the commandments were already going to break them.

Here was Jesus telling them, that we may betray each other, we may be inconsistent in so many ways, but let us strive to be a family which despite its idiosyncrasies we strive to be united in love. We strive to work for compassion, peace and justice.

Just as our faith in God increases day by day so should our love for each other increase day by day. We should go out of the way to lend a helping hand. We should carry each other’s burdens. We should forgive and pray for one another.

This new commandment was given to the disciples following the washing of the feet. Jesus was showing there was dignity in serving the needs of others. This action is easily understood as a sign of humility all over the world. Whether it is the archbishop of Canterbury or the Pope at the Vatican they all find great rewards in continuing this ceremony over the years. It is a call to love and serve one another in actions and in truth. Do you hear Jesus calling you today to follow him?

Prayer of St. Francis (Little poor man of Assisi)

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love.
Where there is injury, pardon.
Where there is doubt, faith.
Where there is despair, hope.
Where there is darkness, light.
Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,
Grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console;
To be understood, as to understand;
To be loved, as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive.
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.
Amen.

Last Supper

Upper Room

(Mt. 26:17-30, Mk. 14:12-26 Luke 22:7-23 and John 13:1-17:26)

Italian Renaissance artist Domenico Ghirlandaio

The cup we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ?  

The bread we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 

For we are all partakers of that one bread: 

for we being many are one body. 

 1 Corinthians 10:16-17

The Passover meal was particularly important for the Jews, as it was a commemoration that reminded them of their exodus from Egypt over 3300 years ago. In Egypt the blood of a sacrificial lamb (Korban Pesach or Paschal Lamb) was sprinkled on their doorposts to keep the angel of death from slaying the eldest son of the family. Imagine the commotion in Egypt when so many first-born sons died, but none of the Israelite sons died Exodus12:14.

 Caldertop Cottage Nature Diary

Traditionally the Passover meal is a family celebration (or group of families) Exodus 13:3. The last meal that Jesus had with the disciples was a Passover meal. But when Jesus celebrated it with the disciples it laid the foundation for a very sacramental service that was performed in the churches down through the ages.

In the Old Testament the Israelites used to offer animal sacrifices to atone for their sins. This was done repeatedly as it was only a temporary measure until they fell again to sin. On his triumphal entry Jesus on entering the temple, drove out the money changers who were making a lucrative business out of the sacrificial animals. He said he wanted the temple to be a house of prayer, and not a den of thieves. With Jesus death (Korban Pesach or Paschal lamb) no more animal sacrifices were required.

Jesus death on the cross was considered as the final and timeless sacrifice (1 Corinthians 5:7) as prophesied by the prophet Isaiah on whom the sins of all of us was laid (Isaiah 53:6-7). In the New Testament Peter refers to Jesus as a lamb without blemish (1 Peter 1:19).

Jesus told Peter and John to look for a man carrying a jar of water. The man with a jar of water would be a sign; he would be the one to offer them a room to have their last meal together. All they had to tell the man was the master has need for the room.

  

At the last supper Jesus took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and washed the feet of his disciples. Normally the washing of the feet was done by the servants. Jesus told his disciples that the reason why he washed their feet was to stress the humble role of a master or teacher was to serve others. He showed that a leader must be a hands on to the needs of one's family, friends and associates. In so doing, he empowered them to work for the greater good of the people.
 

The Last supper had its roots in the Old Testament and the Passover meal. In the upper room Jesus took the bread and wine as sacraments that would in future become religious sacraments in remembrance of his death. Jesus said his blood was poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. (Matthew 26:28)

Jesus said his blood was shed for the new covenant between God and God's people (Luke 22:20). Jesus said he did not come to abolish the laws given to Moses but came to fulfill and accomplish the purpose for which the law was written (Matthew 5:17). The old covenant was written on stone but the new one would be written on our hearts (Hebrews 8:13). 

Today we celebrate the new covenant that Jesus laid for us all. Jeremiah prophesied that God would make a new covenant with the people. One in which Gods laws would be written in the tablets of our hearts. This covenant will come to fruition when Christ comes again.

Cornerstone

The Parable of the Tenants 

Matthew 21:42 Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: "'The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes'?

(Matthew 21:33-46 Mark 12:1-12 Luke 20:9-19)

Ephesians 2:11-22

In his last and final days in Jerusalem after his triumphant entry, Jesus spoke to the people and Jewish Leaders about the parable of the tenants. In this parable the Land Lord leases his vineyard to tenants and left for a different country. When he sent his servants for his share of the fruits, they were beaten and sent away empty. So he sends his only son, but they kill him.  Will not the wrath of the Landlord come down crushingly on the tenants? Jesus was clearly prophesying about his coming death, this made the Jewish Leaders, furious and want to do away with him. 

One of the quotations about the corner stone that Jesus is referring to is found in the Old Testament where David (Psalm 118:22) says the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. It was applicable to David who was rejected by King Saul, who later was the one on whom the nation of Israel was built. The day David was put on the throne was the dawn of a new era for the nation of Israel (Luke 1:32-33).

The cornerstone is an essential and indispensible part of a building. Jesus life, death and resurrection are the cornerstone, on which the church is built. The teachings and lives of the prophets and apostles are the foundation of the building (Ephesians 2:20) with Christ who is the cornerstone.

Christ quoted the same words when the shadow of the cross was looming large in Jerusalem. He was prophesying that he was going to be humiliated and rejected. Following his resurrection God was going to exalt him make him the corner stone on which God would build. The stone, which the builders thought as unfit, was to become the principal stone of the whole church. It is here where God has laid the foundation for all our hopes, and joys.

The amazing power of this corner stone is that those of us who trust on the corner stone to be their strength and foundation will never regret it. They will be broken and made into living stones being built up brick by brick, stone by stone, to be part of the sanctuary (Spiritual home). They are the building material he uses to build the church as we are fastened and fitted together in love to be the house of God. He chips and breaks of the unwanted parts of our lives, and makes us into faithful stewards of his word. God himself is the architect and builder where every one has a place to be part of church. But to those who are untrusting, they will be crushed as predicted because they refuse to obey.

Today what is the power that strengthens the church and holds it up together? The world and many of the nations continue to be torn apart by War, Terrorism, Overpopulation, Hunger and Economic collapse. Above all ethnic, racial, and cultural divides within countries divide and create hostility and hatred. People are living under tremendous pressure and burdens that are overwhelming. They are heartbroken, depressed and lonely.

It was to a similar world that Jesus came. The Romans were ruling over Israel. There was a big divide between Jews and Gentiles. All the problems the world faces today were there in varying forms. But the only difference being today we have our lives that can be centered on Christ who is our cornerstone, that anchors our lives and cements us with love, peace and goodwill toward all people.

At this time of lent let us draw near to God’s throne of mercy and find hope and grace to help us in our time of need to live in unity (Hebrews 4:16). Is there anybody you have a prejudice toward? Is there anybody you are not reconciled to? We all are centered on Christ who is our cornerstone. Without Christ we would all just crumble and be crushed. It is Christ who fills us and sustains us with all joy and peace. By the power of the Holy Spirit we continue to overflow in hope (Romans 15:13). Let us live as a people who believe in the God of hope who died for the sins of us all. Let us continue to pray for renewal and change.

Hosanna!!

Triumph of Christ

And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest. Matthew 21:9

Reading  Matthew 21:1-10 Luke 19:28-40

Jesus sent his disciples to bring a donkey with her colt and untie them and bring them to him. Was Jesus tired and wanted to ride a donkey? No, he wanted to show to the people the nature of his Kingdom. It was showing to the people that he had finally declared himself to be a king. He was the fulfillment of the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. Parading into Jerusalem on a donkey displayed his meekness; he was not declaring himself the King of the world, but of a much larger and greater kingdom. It portrayed him as the King of peace as opposed to a king of war riding on a horse. Much of Jesus life was lived as fulfillment of various prophesies that were foretold over the past centuries.

Triumphal entry into Jerusalem, fresco in the Parish Church Zirl, Austria

Cutting down branches from the palm trees and waving it was symbolic of triumph and victory. The people came out in hoards to welcome Jesus into Jerusalem. It was an eclectic crowd of people. It was the time of the Passover and many had travelled from different parts of the world to be there for the Passover. The crowds started following suite with the disciples in shouting Hosanna! It was a Hebrew word meaning Save now we beseech thee! or Save I pray!.

The word “Hosanna” was emblematic for a cry for help from the people to the Messiah quoted in Psalm 118:25. It was a cry from the people to save them from Roman rule and oppression. It was their way of accepting Jesus as their King who would restore the throne of David and his descendants back to their rightful place in Jerusalem. It was a prayer empowered by the Holy Spirit with reverence to say blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.

When Jesus entered the city it was in broad daylight. The entire city was in in a state of chaos and pandemonium. Some were asking each other, who is this king? Why is he riding on a donkey? The Scribes and Pharisees were appalled with what was happening. They scolded and criticized Jesus. They told him to stop the people from calling him a king. Jesus response was if they should keep quiet the stones would immediately cry out for salvation (Luke 19:39-40). Wonder why they did not attack Jesus with their temple soldiers then? Were they afraid of how the multitudes of enthusiastic followers would react?

The Jews were desperately looking for a Messiah who would free them from the Roman aggression. They were looking forward to the day when they could be an independent nation free of any foreign rulers. They were looking forward to a powerful and glorious earthly king who would be the chosen one of God, anointed to establish a sovereign Jewish Kingdom.

When the wise men from the east came to Herod’s palace looking to worship the king of Jews, were they disappointed to see that Jesus was not born in the palace? Herod was greatly troubled and tried his best to kill baby Jesus, by killing all the babies in Bethlehem. Jesus through out his ministry showed that he was not interested in being a king on earth. After the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:15), the people wanted to force him to be king. After casting out the demons (Mark 1:24) he forbade even the demons from professing that he was the Son of God. After the mount of transfiguration he forbade his three disciples from talking of the experience to anyone.

When we look up at the stars in the sky, our eyes cannot tell us which of the stars are closer to us, and which that are farther away. So it is with the prophecies concerning Jesus. Some were fulfilled in his first coming and the others will be in his second coming. The first was purely a proclamation and invitation for all to hear and be invited to be part of his kingdom. The second coming will be in power and majesty and he will establish his sovereign rule on earth (Matthew 24:30). 

Lifting the Veil

Prophet, Priest and King

The Synoptic Gospel Readings (Matthew 17:1–9, Mark 9:2-10, Luke 9:28–36)

Mount Tabor is the mountain where the transfiguration traditionally took place. There is a Franciscan Church and a Greek Orthodox Church located there today. However Biblical scholars have reasons to believe that actually Mount Hermon is where the transfiguration occurred.

Artist: Pietro Perugino

Completion Date:1500

Collegio del Cambio,  Palazzo dei Priori in the city of Perugia, Italy

In the transfiguration episode we see the veil separating the Kingdom of Heaven from the Kingdom on Earth being lifted and the divine nature of Jesus being revealed. It is here the disciples see Jesus completely transformed and his face change and his clothes become dazzling white. It is only much later they realize why Jesus took them up to this mountaintop?

On the mountain the disciples saw him deep in conversation with Moses and Elijah. We often wonder what transpired there. We know from the Old Testament descriptions that Moses and Elijah had had similar revelations on mountain tops from God. Moses received the Ten commandments and Elijah heard the still small voice of God after the wind and the earthquake.

These episodes impact on the lives of people down through the ages has been tremendous. Here on the mountain top Jesus encounters two spiritual giants  one who gave us the ten commandments and the other who while on earth had established moments of direct communion with God through the elements of nature. Could this mean that Jesus was the fulfillment of the law and the prophets or one much greater?

Jesus was looking for God’s assurance that he was doing his will. He wanted to hear the voice of God. Far away from the crowds and in the loneliness of a mountain top. He also probably wanted his three closest disciples Peter (2 Peter 1:16), James, and John (John1:14)  to witness the glory and majesty of the Son of God.  For the three disciples it was probably an unforgettable and awesome experience.

It was a turning point in that Jesus started to go about the rest of his ministry with increased boldness knowing that the shadow of the cross was looming large (Hebrews 12:2). It was here that Jesus was looking for the final commands and strength from God to go on. The presence of the two great men of God probably assured Jesus that he was on the right path.

Peter again in his bold and bashful way tries to tell Jesus, Moses and Elijah that they could build a shelter one for each of them to stay. Unexpectedly the voice of God interjects and says, this is my son whom I dearly love, listen to him. The voice of God terrified the disciples. 

Suddenly we see God revealing himself to the disciples, as a voice hidden in the clouds, this is your King and do you realize what you are saying? Are you listening? The closeness with which Jesus conversed with Moses and Elijah makes us realize that there is so much that Jesus knew which he did not reveal to mankind. If only we knew how, we could lift the veil and behold Gods Kingdom and the unseen cloud of witnesses who are really so close at hand.

To some of us today through prayer we see the veil being lifted, where we can reflect on God’s love and embrace on our lives. (2Corinthians 3:16-18).  It is these mountain top experiences that help us cope with our own trials and tribulations just as it did for Jesus. They also help us to be instruments to minister to the needs of our friends and family. Do you have a message you can take down to the valley below to your friends and family?

Resurrection and Life

Jesus said to Martha, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believes in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. John 11:25

  Further Reading John 11

Artist: Rembrandt

Completion Date: 1630 

 Gallery: Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles, CA, USA

When messengers inform Jesus of Lazarus’s illness, Jesus does not declare a command of healing, but instead assures everyone that Lazarus sickness will not end in death. Then he continues in his work and ministry.  So much so that he goes to see Lazarus only two days later.

Jesus goes boldly to Judea even though there were death threats issued for him and his disciples. Jesus knew that until the time came for his arrest, nothing could stop him from ministering to the needs of the people.

By the time they arrive Lazarus has been dead and buried. Martha comes to Jesus expressing her sorrow of Lazarus loss. Jesus assures her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never die.” Then he asks Martha do you believe this? Then she affirms her faith in Jesus.

When Mary came weeping to Jesus, he was overwhelmed with grief and wept. Here again we see the humanness of Christ, sorrow over Mary’s tears and anger towards mans powerlessness over the sting of death. With Martha Jesus spoke with power but, with Mary he expressed his grief and sorrow.

It is here in Bethany we see again, the cross cast its heavy shadow on the Jesus ministry. He comes increasing under the watchful eyes of the religious authorities and people of Jerusalem.  Caiaphas words following Lazarus’s resurrection, become almost ominously prophetic as he says, that it is better one man should die for the people, than the whole nation perish.

During lent we look at the way Jesus was preparing his disciples for his death He wanted them to see that everyone who believes in him will live even after dying. Everyone who lives and believes in Christ will never die.  Christ will come again, and nothing can stop this from happening. Do you Believe?

Lord I Believe

Lyrics by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir

Though I can't see Your holy face
And Your throne in heaven above
It seems so far away
And though I can't touch your nail scarred hands
I have a deep unspeakable joy
That makes my faith to stand

Chorus:
Lord, I believe in You
I'll always believe in You
Though I can't see you with my eyes
Deep in my heart
Your presence I find
Lord, I believe in You
And I'll keep my trust in You
Let this whole world say what they may
No one can take this joy away
Lord, I believe

Excessive & Extravagant Love

Going for broke

And being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as Jesus sat to eat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious; and she broke the box, and poured it on his head. And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made? For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her. Mark 14:3-5

The woman out of her excessive love for Jesus broke a box of this extravagantly expensive oinment, and anointed his head with it. The price of the Alabaster box could possible have fed many hundreds of hungry poor souls. Seeing the indignation of the people there Jesus said that her act should not be regarded as a waste but be always remembered with great honor. It was her way of thanking Jesus for all he had done to bring peace to her soul.

The woman's act reminded me of the act of the poor widow who gave all she had, although it was an insignificant amount of money. In Jesus eyes she gave all that she had to live on. How many of us can go for broke like that?

Marks gospel says that the woman broke the box and poured the precious ointment on Jesus’s head. Many versions call it perfume, but King James Version calls it an ointment, which makes it so much more meaningful. Ointment gives it a medicinal value and Spikenard is known for its relaxing quality for the nerves. This ointment was possibly imported from India or Nepal from the Himalayan mountains. It is traditional for Asians even today, to pour certain kinds of oils on their heads and massage the oil in to relax the nerves.

Do you think the woman sensed that Jesus was under tremendous tension knowing that his greatest trial and temptation were just so close at hand? To think that Jesus was tensed brings out his humanness so exquisitely. In a way the woman was trying to provide the best ointment that could for a moment bring relief to Jesus.

Here again we see the tension, which develops in the room among Jesus followers. Some felt it was an absolute waste of resources. But to Jesus it was an act of love. It is not what other people think of how you use your gifts and resources for God, but God who sees into our hearts and is happy with our contribution.

It is not the hundreds of people that you can influence, but the even the precious few you are able to lead to the Lord. There will always be those who may not agree, but we step up and do our best. We give of our best to our master.

Did the woman’s act stop Jesus from going to his death on the cross? No. But I do believe that for a moment in time Jesus sensed relief as he felt the ointment being poured on his head by a disciple who loved him deeply.

During this time of lent let us surrender all we have to Jesus without any restrictions. Let us look up to him to break us, melt us and mold us into the people he wants us to be.

Lord pour your healing balm on our hearts and minds and make us whole.