The Guest of Honor

As I read through the readings for today, I was drawn to the contrast in disposition of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus toward Jesus and that of Judas the Iscariot. Martha was serving a wonderful meal no doubt. Lazarus is enjoying time with our Lord who had just given him new life only days ago. And Mary spares no expense on washing the Lord’s feet. Yet, Judas can only scoff at the use of expensive fragranced oil being used on the Lord’s feet. It seems to me that out of all these companions to the Lord, Judas would be more in tune to WHO the guest of honor truly is at this special meal – a reality not missed by Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. What a tragic loss for Judas who witnessed time and time again the examples that revealed the Lord is [our] light and salvation (Ps 27).

Spare No Expense and Focus on Jesus

My dear friends let us march through this Holy Week with our focus on our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. HE has been with us all along. And in this special week leading up to the most important Christian season turn all focus toward HIM reflecting on God’s word “Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one with whom I am pleased, upon whom I have put my Spirit. He shall bring forth justice to the nations” (Isaiah 42:1-2).

Finally, attend the Chrism Mass and experience the fragrant oil. Celebrate the Triduum and recline at table with the Lord celebrating what wonders He has done for us. And, attend the Vigil Mass watching the Lord’s Spirit breathe new life into the newly initiated faithful of the Church! Peace, Love and Blessing upon you all in this most Holy Week. Amen.

[Readings: Is 42:1-7; Jn 12:1-11]

Tristan Evans

Tristan Evans is a husband, father of a daughter and two sons, past Director of Religious Education, Middle School Youth Minister, and Coordinator of African Ancestry Ministry and Evangelization for the diocese of Raleigh. He is a Master Catechist and currently serves as a Fraternal Insurance Counselor Fellow for the Knights of Columbus. Tristan is also an advocate for catholic entrepreneurship. He resides in Durham, North Carolina. www.bleaf.org

1 Comments

  1. Beatrice Francis-Hector on April 3, 2023 at 11:33 am

    “The Guest of Honor” is indeed a wonderful way for me to reflect and get inspired to walk with Jesus during this Holy Week! After multiple, hurtful attacks by my Ex-husband’s Family, my Step-Family, and my blood-Family, I decided to block ALL of them out of my life! It is the most difficult, and painful decision that I had to make! My Mom, was called to the Lord on March 20, 2014. She was only 62. I lost my Best Friend. She brought light to every corner of ones soul! She would be so sad, to see the DYSFUNCTION & TOXICITY that has permeated this Family! Our Ancestors in Haiti are turning over in their graves! We did not leave Haiti to come to America to bully and disrespect our fellow brothers & sisters! That was NOT the goal. Unfortunately, the evil one has permeated our homes, far from the shores of Haiti. We forgot to HOW to honor our flag “Unity Equals Force”! We forgot HOW to honor one another! We forgot HOW to honor JESUS, our BELOVED “Guest of Honor”. Thank you, Brother Evans, for this piece. I live in Tampa, FL, but am spending Holy Week worshipping with St. Eugene’s Chapel & Catholic Student Mission, directed by Fr. Paschal Chester. I am visiting my Son in Tallahassee, FL. Nathaniel is a USDA Scholar & Sophomore studying Animal Science/Pre-Veterinary Medicine! Go Rattlers! With much admiration & appreciation Brother Evans! Please visit Tallahassee soon! You’ll feel right at home, with my Haitian cooking!

    Blessings,

    Béatrice

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