Christ Jesus, help me in each moment to seize the opportunity to love...

John 12:1-11
                     
We never know when the relationships we take for granted will be curtailed.  Within one week of having dinner with Mary and Martha and Lazarus in Bethany, Jesus would be put to death by crucifixion. Even though she was unaware of Jesus’ imminent Passion, Mary of Bethany had seized the opportunity to welcome their family friend and Master. Not only did she invite him and his disciples to dinner, but she also by purchased a pound of costly ointment infused with the healing oil of nard for the sole purpose of anointing Jesus, the highest honor one could bestow upon a guest. Her costly act of love that evening has been told and retold throughout the centuries. Judas on the other hand, although he attended the same feast and had had even more opportunities to surround his Master with love, chose instead to enter into criticism of others and ultimately self-centred and death-dealing  dialogue.  Moment by moment will I, like Judas, remain caught up in judgemental thoughts and actions, or will I, like Mary of Bethany, expend my all to enter into the more sacred dialogue of love honor?  Christ Jesus, help me in each moment to seize the opportunity to love.  
 
 He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud in the imaginations of their hearts.  (The Benedictus)
 
Many will be confused and many will be deceived.  But Jesus says, you must stand ready, stay awake, stay tuned to the word of God, so that you will survive all that is going to happen and be able to stand confidently (con-fide, with trust) in the presence of God together in community.
Henri Nouwen, Finding My Way Home: Pathways to Life and Spirit

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Soli ad gloriam Dei