Have you considered that Judas could have been a saint? Judas should have been a saint? “The great tragedy is that Judas might have been Saint Judas,” our pastor recently said in a homily. Today’s gospel reading brings us to the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus six days before Passover. It is the last week of Jesus’ public ministry. They are having dinner together, likely enjoying one another’s company and friendship, as we know that Jesus often visited with the three of them. Judas is among the guests. All the disciples are probably present as well.
Oils
Sometime, probably, after they had eaten, while having fellowship, Mary used expensive oil to wipe Jesus’ feet. Our family began using essential oils many years ago for health, wellness, and preventative purposes. Oils have been used since the Old Testament and prove to be quite useful when used properly.
Many of the oils have extremely fragrant aromas. The citrus blends are among my favorite, though I reach for Frankincense most often. It makes me think of the infant Jesus. I imagine the room at Mary and Martha’s house smelled rich. Certainly, it was quite a luxury and very soothing to have a foot rub with all the walking Jesus did.
Undoubtedly, it was a sacrifice for Mary to use what I presume was probably costly then, as it is now too. Have you ever regretted extra care and attention toward someone? Or treating him to something special? I have not. In fact, I find the more I give, the more I receive. My grandmother taught me long ago, nothing is really ours anyway. It is all God’s, and it is such a privilege to share with others.
Materialism
Yet, Judas was clearly annoyed that Mary was using the oils for Jesus. He wanted to know why they were not being sold for money. We get a glimpse of what is to come this week. We see the hardness and selfishness in Judas.
I am encouraged to be like Mary, to focus on what I can give to Jesus no matter the cost. Afterall, it is not really mine. I urge you to really ponder what gifts you can give Jesus this last week of Lent.
Repentance
Finally, if you have not yet visited the sacrament of reconciliation, perhaps this can be your gift. Our pastor continued by acknowledging two types of reconciliation. This concept was new to me in the way he presented it. He said Saint Peter repented to the Lord. Judas repented to himself. He felt sorry for himself. He was in despair. Judas did not really know the Lord.
Know the Lord. Repent. And follow the path to sainthood.
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Joanne, beautiful reflection! Do you go to St. Luke’s now? Msgr. Ingham said the same thing about Judas (repenting to himself instead of to Christ). It was more a prideful remorse than the contrition of Peter. Much to ponder!
Yes! That’s exactly it.
We see your brother and family a lot!
Thank you for your kind words.