In the gospel reading today, Judas thinks Mary is wasteful, but their perspectives on life are quite different. Here’s today’s reflection from Mass.
BIBLE READINGS: The readings for the Monday of Holy Week, can be found here.
Pablo Picasso, the surrealist painter who died in 1973 is reputed to have said, “I’d like to live as a poor man with plenty of money.” A contradiction if ever there was one.
Incidentally, he died without leaving a will which meant that a feud soon began amongst his family members, including his three illegitimate children. They finally reached an agreement of how his $240 million estate would be divided.
In the gospel reading, Judas Iscariot is eyeing up the value of the expensive ointment in the hands of Mary. We are told that he often dipped his hand into the common fund and had no real concern for the poor, despite saying they it would be better if the ointment had been sold and the money give to the poor. We can only imagine why and how Mary came into possession of the perfume, or what her plans were for it but Mary’s life has been changed by Jesus, and she contradicts what’s Judas thinks is important. She is bold and courageous. She is generous and loving. She holds nothing back from Jesus, and as she anoints his feet, the whole room is filled with the sweet aroma of what she has done.
Our life is often full of contradictions. We say one thing, and do another. We believe one thing, but our belief isn’t always expressed in how we act or respond to others. We may want to live simply and yet litter our lives with so many things we don’t need. We may have a hope or an ambition but do nothing to realise it. Mary’s actions give an example of authentic faith and living, full of love and generosity. Her perspective on life has been changed by Jesus. May we recognise the true value of everything and discover afresh what it means to place Jesus at the heart of our lives, pouring out our love upon him and filling the world with sweetness.
Mass today is at S Dyfrig and S Samson Church at 630pm
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