John 12:1-11
Reflection by Tom Lewis, MDiv
Here we are, just on the other side of the Mount of Olives from Jerusalem. Jesus is getting close, and continues to threaten Rome because he raised Lazarus and everybody knows it.
Mary, who stayed home and sulked when Jesus visited after Lazarus died has had a complete reversal, and now is the one who anoints Jesus feet. The People on Palm Sunday think that Jesus will be a David or Saul kind of king, but Mary knows and anoints his feet to show that he will be a servant-king. Jesus is coming for his bride, the People. The conquering kings are smashed forever.
Jesus asks those who try to stop Mary if they want her to save the Myrrh (nard) for his entombment, to cover the stench of death. But he will not endure the inevitable death and it’s aftermath. This will be a killing for life!
Then the quote from Deuteronomy 15:11, “Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, I therefore command you, “Open your hand to the poor and needy neighbor in your land.” It doesn’t mean you can’t fix the poor problem, but that the poor will always function for the rich to keep giving gifts to the poor, so that you can show that you are not holding on to your possessions, but using them to show your love of God, who loves the poor.
We see again that the politicians are threatened by Lazarus, who becomes a sign of the reign of God. Not only does Jesus have to die, but so does the evidence that Jesus has the power over death. When Jesus commanded the release of Lazarus after he was raised, it was so that Lazarus could be a witness for Jesus and God’s power. Here we see that is happening.
As Lent winds down, we have this evidence that the plan of God to keep the promises made to Israel and all The People since, continues on course. The way to the cross is literally over the next hill from Bethany, and there, we will see the radical love God has for all of humanity. The politicians in Jerusalem hold back, protect, preserve the status quo. Instead, God marches his Son to the cross to fulfill the prophecy. He has to die for us. Thanks be to God!