Lenten Reflections #5

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Mary of Bethany was in the spotlight in this past Sunday's Gospel reading (John 12:1-8). In an act of loving devotion, she pours expensive perfume on Jesus' feet and uses her hair to dry them. Judas judges her actions questioning why the perfume wasn't sold and the money from it given to the poor. Jesus defends Mary: “Leave her alone” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.” (John 12:7).

Mary. She's one of the people in the Bible who catches my attention. Why? Probably because she doesn't do what is expected of her and she gets some pretty serious negative attention as a result. Judas in John 12. Her own sister, Martha, in Luke 10:38-42. But in both accounts, Jesus stands up for her. He speaks of her doing the right thing. Notice what that is?
 
Mary gives Jesus her full attention. When Jesus is near Mary, nothing keeps her from showing her love and devotion to him. Somehow Mary has not only realized that Jesus is worthy of her undivided attention, but she also follows through on that knowledge.
 
As we continue this Lent season, let Mary be our model in not letting the expectations of others keep us from complete devotion to Christ. Whatever others think of us, however they judge our actions, they do not stand before God for us. Each one of us has the opportunity to “love the Lord our God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength” - to give Jesus the attention He is worthy of. Only you can do that in your life. No one can do it for you. I encourage you, before Lent is over, to carve out some time in your schedule to be with Jesus and give Him your full attention.
 
Grace and Peace,
Tracy 

Follow-up Note: It is your personal privilege and responsibility to engage God. But this doesn't mean you are alone in your quest to love and worship Jesus. Fellowship is such an important part of our life with Christ. Read the New Testament to see what encouragement can be gained from the people of God. If you are discouraged and wonder if you even know how to give Jesus attention, ask others who you know are walking with God to pray for you. We need each other in the Body of Christ.




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