Christian Counseling Service -- Devotions

Retreating with Jesus

Monday, April 9, 2001

John 12:1-11
John 12:1-11 Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus' honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair.

This is Jesus' last stop before coming out of hiding. It actually takes place the day before what we now call Palm Sunday, the day before the people rise up and greet him with praise and proclamation and joy. Jesus has talked often enough about what is coming ... he knows the peoples' praise will quickly turn, that he will be arrested and ridiculed and killed.

I imagine that he is very quiet inside himself. There are so many people around him, all with their own agendas. He is alone with his. In this setting surrounding by friends he wants to gather his strength, clarify his mission, renew his resolve. But Martha is busy as usual, recently resurrected Lazarus is full of himself, the disciples have attitudes ... only Mary is on the same wavelength as Jesus. No wonder he appreciates her so much.

I begin to feel quiet inside myself as I think about this. My agendas are not so urgent, my problems not so painful. I breathe more easily, my body relaxes. To go on retreat this week with Jesus, preparing for his difficult time to come, I will rest, pour my own perfume on Jesus' feet, think of him and speak to him more often.

In her devotion for today, Sister Marguerite Zralek prays a prayer I want to pray as well:

Jesus, my Savior and friend, during this Holy Week, help me to accompany you.

If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
Even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
(Psalm 139)

Devotions Archive

Retreating with Jesus

Monday, April 9, 2001