Welcome to "A Word of Hope" with Br. Ed Van Merrienboer, OP, preaching from St. Vincent Ferrer Church in River Forest, IL, for Monday of Holy Week. Reflect on the day's readings: Isaiah's vision of a just Messiah and the powerful Gospel account of Mary anointing Jesus' feet with precious ointment in Bethany (John 12:1-11).
Delve into this scene of profound hospitality and foreshadowing. Contrast Mary's generous act with Judas Iscariot's duplicitous objection about selling the ointment for the poor. Br. Ed clarifies Jesus's famous reply, "The poor are always with you... she is anointing me for my burial," explaining how it references Deuteronomy 15:11 and actually reinforces our ongoing duty to care for the needy, while acknowledging the extraordinary moment at hand.
This Holy Week reflection emphasizes that true justice, as prophesied by Isaiah, includes our compassionate activity towards the poor. God loves and protects the vulnerable, often through our actions. Be inspired this week to find a way to contribute, help, or show kindness to those less fortunate.
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