Focal Shelf
Today’s story is drawn from John’s gospel. Mary (not Mary Magdalene) anoints Jesus’ feet with nard, a very aromatic (and expensive) essential oil. Can you find some scented oil or perfume to place on your table today? Enjoy the aroma!

Meal
At your meal today, read this story of the anointing at Bethany. 

John 12: 1-11
Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him.Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, ‘Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?’ (He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) Jesus said, ‘Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.’

 Here is a prayer to share at your meal, or another time:

God of all,
we thank you for Mary,
who prefigured Jesus’ death with her intimate generosity.
We thank you for all wise women,
who see the truth and dare to declare it,
even when they face derision.
Help us to come close to you
and prepare to remember your death.
Through Jesus Christ, our precious friend. Amen.

Inner Life
Who are the wise and brave women in your life? Who has influenced, challenged and inspired you? Take some time give thanks for them (living and departed).