Homily: Monday of Holy Week - Mary or Judas

Yesterday, we heard St. Mark's version of this story at the very beginning of his account of the Passion. Today, we hear St John's version, who includes some details we didn't hear yesterday: particularly the striking difference between Mary, Jesus' friend and Judas, Jesus' betrayer.

For Mary, Jesus was worth all she had. The precious jar of aromatic spikenard was worth 300 days wages—30,000 dollars today. For Judas, rather than giving, was preparing to sell Jesus for about 30 pieces of silver.

Mary showed her love by her willingness to give. Judas showed his malice by his critique of Mary, his willingness to steal from the money purse, and of course, betray one so close to him.

At the beginning of Holy Week, we get this powerful examination of conscience. We are challenged by Mary's example of generosity. She lavished the best she had upon our Lord. Do we do the same?

This anointing brings the Lord comfort and strength as he prepared for the great task of dying for our sins. As he would walk the road of Calvary, beaten and mocked, he would remember this moment of tenderness. Are we truly concerned about those who carry heavier crosses than we do? Seeking to bring comfort and encouragement to them?

Judas focused not so much on what he could give, but what he could get. When we come to the Lord in prayer, are we focused only on asking for things, rather than showing our love? Do I like Judas turn away from moments of tenderness and intimacy with the Lord in favor of worldly pursuits?

Our love and devotion for Jesus should be like the fragrance of the aromatic oil. Is my Christian faith detectable by those whom I encounter throughout the day—in my speech, in my attitude, in my patience?

We do well beginning Holy Week with the example of Mary of Bethany. She shows us that loving Jesus is costly—discipleship is costly—it requires sacrifice. Yet, it brings powerful, life-giving, encounter with Jesus who goes to die for our sins. May these final days of Lent help us to follow Christ more closely in all things for the glory of God and salvation of souls.