+(Intro) We will hear this morning from Isaiah that God’s servant does not cry out, a bruised reed he shall not break, a smoldering wick he shall not quench. Let us take a moment to reflect on those times we have been hurtful to others.
(After the gospel) Jesus at Bethany just before the Passover was enjoying time with Lazarus, Martha and Mary. What Mary did with the costly perfumed oil, we can all do in a real way, by our simple and loving service toward one another.
Our community life, our Church, our society can be filled with the fragrance of the costly ointment as we live in loving service toward one another. Jesus has reminded us that what we do to the least of our brothers or sisters, we do to him. We don’t have to go very far to find his presence among us.
We are very much encouraged by the Eucharist we celebrate each day. For here, right here in this place is made present the very moment our Lord gave us his life for love of each and all of us. Here He shares with us the most costly perfume that will ever exist, the gift of the Holy Spirit by means of his own Body and Blood given in love for us.
Isa 42:1-7; John 12:1-11