Monday of Holy Week

Readings of the Day

This Gospel reminds us how important this coming week is. We are at the beginning of the end, which is itself a new beginning. Jesus knows what lies ahead of him. But instead of dwelling on the future - his upcoming death and resurrection - he is focused on the present. 

Jesus had just brought Lazarus back from the dead and is gathered with Mary, Martha, and all his disciples. Mary, always dedicated to Jesus, uses an expensive perfume to anoint Jesus’s feet and dries his feet with her hair! Jesus welcomes her actions in the moment and acknowledges them as preparation for his death.  

As we enter Holy Week, this passage from John is a good reminder that we are in the last few days of Lent, and our focus needs to be on Jesus and the present. As we are in the home stretch of Lent, it is easy to get distracted. The temptation is there to prepare our house, plan the menu for Easter brunch, stuff Easter eggs, and create Easter baskets for the children. Like Mary, let us be ever humble, present, and adoring of our Lord. In these last few days of Lent, let us refocus on preparing our hearts and minds for the risen Christ.  

Jesus reminds Judas, “You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.” Judas is a sharp contrast to Mary. He is ever self-righteous, deceiving, and his words are empty. These last 40 days: have you been a Judas? Did your Lenten journey start out strong and then flatten out? Like Judas have you have struggled or taken a detour these last 40 days? As we start Holy Week, let us take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and false promises and truly give ourselves the freedom to return to God. 

Renew your Lenten experience by living in the present this week. Spend time in adoration, pray the rosary, attend stations of the cross or daily Mass. Let us pray for our own Fiat, our own "yes," to whatever Christ calls us. May we choose to be like Mary, always present for our Lord Jesus Christ.

Jennifer Bibbo is the Director of Outreach and Pastoral Care at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Austin, Texas.

Sign up to receive the Daily Lent Reflection emails and other CCUSA messages here.