In John Chapter 12 there is a confusing, at least on first inspection scene. Jesus is reclining at the supper table as was the custom when Mary of Bethany came in and anointed Jesus feet with costly perfume-the bible says costing about a years wages. Judas makes the point-why wasn't this lavish gift sold and the money used to benefit the poor? Jesus said leave her alone-this is meant for my burial.
As usual, the Master has multiple reasons for his comments, some are for the people who were present then, and some illustrate priciples for us today.
First of all Jesus never allowed piling on especially for women and children. Jesus did not duck away or make a policiticially correct comment like "yeah, it should have been given to the poor, but I did not see her coming or I would have stopped her." She wipes his feet with her hair-not something many of us would be comfortable with, but Jesus accepts the gift the way it was given-just the same way he accepts everyone who comes to him, just as they are.
Secondly, he is still trying to get through to the disciples that bad, very bad things are about to happen. The disciples are not listening or do not want to consider the possibility.
Thirdly, what does this say to us today? Jesus, a huge advocate for the poor and down trodden makes the comment, "the poor, you will always have with you, but you not always have me." This seems a little sharp, but the lesson is put me first, and this lesson reverberates down to us today with all of our social action groups and activities. We must first honor the Master in everything we do. We have to have our priorities straight to keep from going off course. Seek Jesus and his kingdom first!
Time to toss this into the internet ocean, I hope it helps someone. We will speak again good reader....Big D
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