03022022 – John 12.1-8
William Shakespeare wrote the memorable line in Hamlet, “something is rotten or something “smells rotten” in Denmark,” I think more Biblically accurate – something is “pretty stinky in Bethany…” too!
And it is coming from that “big house” right – over there…people have argued about “who’s house” it actually was. Such silly arguments. Does it really matter?
I do want you to know that the original story is told in Mark’s gospel…and it gets changed from there.
Luke tells us the house belonged to Simon, the leper. It was in the village of Bethany in Judea, on the southeastern slope of the Mount of Olives.
John doesn’t talk about the owner of the house, at all.
Some scholars have suggested that Simon was the father of Mary and Martha and Lazarus. (Maybe yes, maybe no.)
Perhaps his house was larger and more accommodating for a larger number of people. So, his house, was offered for the party to take place, given the large number of people, that may have been expected.
And more pointedly, “that stinky smell” seems to be coming from “that one guy” over there.
I am not sure what his name is…perhaps you know…
But I think he walked with Jesus…
I think he was one of them…and probably, should have known better…
He seems to be – NOT a very nice man.
He made a “big stink” about the anointing…and about the cost of the expensive ointment or perfume that was used.
He kind of blew it – all out of proportion.
I don’t know if you know this or not, but all four of our Gospel accounts have an account about “the anointing of Jesus.”
Yep, it can be found in all the Synoptics and in John, and of course, they all differ just a little bit….each for their own specific purpose.
They all agree Martha was serving, while Mary was anointing…and some guy named Judas (apparently) was doing most, if not all of the grumbling.
My sense is that this dinner has been planned specifically “to honor Jesus” and “to thank him” (and God) for the overwhelming miracle of life for Lazarus and for the other “invited guests.”
Martha is in her usual place organizing the meal and making sure it’s well served…and on time.
AFTER ALL, No one likes a cold casserole!
Meanwhile, Mary is about to express her feelings toward Jesus in a rather lavish and excessive way.
And Lazarus is reclining and probably keeping his eye on “the one” who gave him life and returned him to health.
We know that some of Jesus’ disciples are there, as well…
So, it sounds like a pretty big Soiree, you know, a real social event, fancy-schmancey evening affair, a get-together, and celebration.
Almost like a “social function” thanking Jesus for “his healing gifts” to so many people from around that area. They wish to honor him and praise God for all of “their many, many blessings…”
They were honored to have their friend and Lord, and Rabbi, break bread with them…and we are told it is just a few days before the Triumphant Entrance into Jerusalem is about to take place.
So, the proverbial clock is a ticking…
Probably people of various walks of life…would have been present…the men all reclining to eat…as was their custom…the women serving from behind.
And that’s when Mary does her thing.
She just does, what she feels she needs to do…or has to do.
My take on it, this time around is a little different, then in the past.
I see Jesus, as being “THE GREAT CARE GIVER.” The guy who is always there, always helping, and taking care of everybody else.
And who is there…to take care of the caregiver?
Well, in this case it is Mary. Cost is no object. Jesus is a rock star. He has blessed them all – in oh, so many ways…and this is like payback time, if payback time were even possible.
She knows she can never repay him in kind. But she can do something nice for him. Anointing, consecrating, setting him a part, showing him “how special” how loved, how respected, and in what high esteem he is held.
For her it is a holy privilege. For her it is a sign of respect…and of caring for the one who cares so much, all the time, constantly, continually, for everybody else.
Even caretakers need a little care, every now and then. And it is the least she could do.
Remember those who care for others in your family…and try, doing something nice for them!
Amen.