We are sometimes guilty of focusing so much on the immediate needs around us (particularly in the crisis of pandemic), that we forget to be still and be present with Jesus. We consider the importance of finding a healthy balance of ‘being’ and ‘doing’. Might we be in need of a healing touch from Jesus ourselves?
Bible reading: Mark 14:3-9 (NIV)
3 While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.
4 Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, ‘Why this waste of perfume? 5 It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages[a] and the money given to the poor.’ And they rebuked her harshly.
6 ‘Leave her alone,’ said Jesus. ‘Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 The poor you will always have with you,[b] and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. 8 She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. 9 Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.’
Voices: Here and there
Today’s here and there voices from Roots share the thoughts from a minister experiencing burnout and the woman who anointed Jesus.
Reflection:
1) What has your experience of ‘being’ and ‘doing’ been like throughout the months of pandemic? Have you found time to spend with Jesus during the past weeks and months?
2) Consider the atmosphere in the room when Jesus was anointed by the woman at Bethany. What kind of emotions and conversations can you imagine going on, and where would you be in the scene?
3 How might we be more mindful about self-care in the coming weeks and months, allowing Jesus to restore and heal us through his presence?
Today’s reflection is from the Roots Here and There reflections for Lent. You can find the full text for the reflections for Holy Week plus suggestions for hymns, prayer and follow-up activity online at https://www.rootsontheweb.com/i-am-looking-for/resources-for-lent-2021
