In the gospels there are versions of a story about Jesus having his feet anointed with oil. In two versions, they are at dinner at the home of Simon the leper, and a woman comes and pours the ointment on his head. In the gospel of John, the anointing occurs at the home of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha in Bethany. The woman is Mary. She pours the oil on Jesus’ feet and wipes with with her hair.
In all three stories, the disciples are angry about the expense involved. Apparently the oil or ointment is very expensive. They are worked up about the waste. Doesn’t that sound familiar? We can’t afford it. Something more important could be done with the money. It could have been given to the poor.
But this attitude misses the point of the anointing. Anointing was part of the burial ritual. This was preparation for what was to come. It was acknowledgement of the poignancy of the moment. How many people say, “If I knew she was going to die, we would have spent the money and taken that trip we always dreamed about.” Or think of the Dream Fund giving kids who are dying an experience they have always wanted. In the face of death, we may spare no expense for our loved one. Maybe the disciples are simply still in denial about what is to come for Jesus. They just cannot accept it or face it. But Mary or the woman validate Jesus’ reality with the oil. Helping him prepare to face what he must face.
Anointing with oil is not just for death. It is also a ritual that is used for designated service. When selecting a leader for instance. When Samuel goes to choose a new king from among Jesse’s sons, he anoints the chosen one, David, with oil. The anointing of Jesus with oil is also a mark that he has been chosen by God for particular service. This is a high honor and a significant responsibility.
Jesus is anointed. Anointed for service and anointed for burial. He fulfills his mission with obedience and faithfulness. And because of his unwavering devotion he faces death. The anointing reminds us that service involves sacrifice. Faithfulness involves risk and can be costly. Obedience can be deadly.
When you think about it, where in today’s society do we see people willing to make a commitment that involves facing death directly? The armed forces. Suicide bombers. Law enforcement. But Jesus gave his life for healing, reconciliation, anti violence, and fairness for the poor and marginalized. Where do we see that kind of obedience and faithfulness today?
Prayer: We are all afraid of death. We do not want to die. And yet we know that we cannot be fully alive without committing ourselves to a greater good. Without devotion and risk we are only going through the motions but not living deeply or fully. May we accept the consequences that come with faithfulness. May we open ourselves to being anointed by God for service knowing that service entails sacrifice. That is what brings us closer to God, to others, and to joy. We pray this through the one who gave all. Amen.
Lakewood United Church of Christ 