The Sacrament of Anointing Jesus

The Sacrament of Anointing Jesus
Lent 5; John 12: 1-8
In every gospel such a one appears:
a woman who anoints his feet or head,
prophetic, or contrite with heartfelt tears,
or grateful for one risen from the dead.
So intimate, extravagant and brave,
expressing love in that embodied way:
compassion that prepared him for the grave,
with touch more eloquent than words can say!
When Mary poured the nard upon his feet,
and knelt to wipe them gently with her hair,
the perfume of that sacrament stays sweet.
In gospel women, we find strength to bear
those times and places where we are not free
to take due place in life and ministry.
	Barbara Messner 30/03/2022