Gospel Reflection: The Anointing
Here’s a prayer reflection on John 12:1-8 (or Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9, Luke
7:36-50), where Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with
perfume. It was written by Thom Shuman.
because
(inspired by John 12:1-8, Matthew 26:6-13, Mark
14:3-9, Luke 7:36-50)
because
we have
preserved our joy
in manna jars
for the long winter of despair,
storing them in the dark corners
of our souls,
we have forgotten
its gritty taste;
because
we have put a
tight lid
on our joy,
and put it in the back
of the pantry,
we have forgotten
how it can tickle
our noses;
because
we are so
busy
prattling pious platitudes
about the poor, the least, the lost,
we ignore your words
which anoint them
as your children;
because
we have put
up
the shutters
and storm doors
to keep your future
from sneaking in,
we have missed
the sweet breeze
carrying your hope
to us;
because
we are who we
are,
restore us, Holy Grace,
and make us
a fragrant offering
to the world.
