The House was Filled with the Fragrance
Lent 5; John 12:1-11
Whether or not he robs the common purse,
his carping words steal beauty from her choice,
and try to rob her of her hard won place
at Jesus’ feet, although her act gives voice
to gratitude for brother’s life restored
and grief prophetic of their teacher’s death.
The ones who come to see him chanting “Lord!”
are risking precious lives with every breath.
Now surely those he trusts must understand
the powers that be will fear this growing crowd!
Her love must give him all she has at hand;
she does not care what men think is allowed.
Her fragrance spreads and women in our day
are strengthened by what they hear Jesus say.
Barbara Messner 2/04/2025
Barb, poet priest 
This is a powerful telling of this gratitude that tends to the giver. And this photo is more than decoration. It opened me to your retelling … so many of the illustrations we use are afterthoughts.
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