Monday 26 March

Isaiah 42:1-7; Psalm 27:1-3, 13-14; John 12:1-11
Here is my servant whom I uphold
Jesus retired to the home of his friends Martha, Mary and Lazarus in Bethany. At dinner, Mary anointed his feet with nard, an expensive fragrant ointment. Jesus defends Mary against Judas’ criticism: “Leave her alone; she had to keep this scent for the day of my burial.” Jesus is among friends for the last time. The nearness of his Passover and the Chief Priests’ decision to kill Lazarus cast a long shadow. When Jesus – “my servant whom I uphold” – leaves Bethany, he will lay down his life on the cross.
Jesus, in my powerlessness, I place myself in your presence.