Some Thoughts
Nard is oil harvested in small amounts from the root-shoot of a plant that grows in high altitudes in the Himalayas. It is often used for funerals as an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal.
They probably had nard in the house to apply to Lazarus, but he stopped being dead, so it was transferred to Jesus.
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1. Consider the actions of (a different) Mary in Luke 7:36-50, with Mary of Bethany in John 12:1-8 and in Luke 10:38-42.
There's a lot in common but also big differences: intentions, style, status, reactions of the onlookers, etc.
- Note: Traditionally "different" Mary is considered to be Mary Magdalena, but most modern scholars don't think so. She's also not Mary of Bethany.
2. Compare Martha in Luke 10:38-42 to the poor in John 12:1-8.
Martha is far from poor, but what is in common?
Does that help us to understand what is poverty? Recall Gord's story of Mother Theresa saying loneliness is modern poverty.
3. John 12:8 can be applied in a diverse number of ways, some of which would be unkind to the poor.
How is it to be properly applied by Christians in general, and in your life? How should we use resources and when?
Note how this passage contrasts the intentions of Judas and Mary.
4. Judas is from Kerioth in southmost Judea. Galilee is the very north of Judea. Judas was the only non-Galilean.
In many ways he had more in common with the Pharisees and Sadducees.
Do you think that could have had an influence on the event where "Satan entered him"?
How should we be better at including everyone?