The Wages of Sin
Martha’s sister, Mary, anoints the feet of Jesus in preparation for His death. She used some very expensive, but aromatic oil. The love Mary has for the Lord impels her to be exceedingly generous.
I have observed couples, young and old, lavish gifts upon each other. Perhaps they could not always afford what they were doing, but out of love our hearts grow generous. We realize the true meaning of money. It is not much compared to the love I have for you. Oh, we all need money to move about in this world, but if I can give up “three hundred days wages” to shower you with my love I would certainly do it.
Then we notice Judas’ response. We should have sold it and given it to the poor. When I hear this comment, it is as if there is a red flag that goes up. This statement is simply a judgment. There is no love involved here.
As I’ve mentioned before, if you have extra and you give to the poor, that is justice because that is what you should do. However, it is not charity because a charitable act is walking with the person in need. To be there with them and for them.
Mary is doing a charitable act. Even in the gospel we are told of Judas’ intentions as being fraudulent. In Judas’ actions there are sins underlying his statement. I can think of pride, envy, jealousy, cheating, lying, and I think you can think of more. These are the wages of sin.
At the start of Holy Week set aside those things that cloud your mind and focus on the love Jesus is offering for you.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen