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Scripture Reading -
Six days before the Passover, Jesus therefore came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So they gave a dinner for him there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with him at table. Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it. Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.”
When the large crowd of the Jews learned that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.
Questions
- What are the different reactions to Jesus and his ministry in this passage? (See verses 3, 5, 10, and 11)
- Judas sought financial gain from Jesus, but Mary gave generously. What other contrasting reactions do you see in this passage? (See verses 10 and 11)
- List some reasons why they would want to kill Lazarus.
- What are ways that people are still opposing Jesus and his work?
Something to pray...
Lord, there were those who opposed you, plotting to kill the man whom you raised from the dead. They wanted to hide the evidence of your glory. I pray that you would expose those who use Christianity to selfishly benefit themselves. Give me courage, Lord, to tell others of you, no matter what the cost. Help me to be like Mary, who honored your kindness and grace with devotion. Amen.