In Chapter 13 Jesus taught about the destruction of the Temple by pagans. We can already see in Chapter 14 that Mark is showing Jesus is on a parallel path; the pagans will attempt to destroy his life.
There are other interesting parallels in Mark’s description of the few days before Jesus’ arrest. The religious leaders are plotting to do away with Jesus; Judas is plotting to betray Jesus; the disciples are grumbling about the extravagant generosity of an un-named woman; and this un-named woman, believing Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah, allows herself to worship Jesus without inhibition.
Why do you think Jesus said this un-named woman would always be remembered? Did Mark include this episode only because Jesus spoke so positively about her? Or is there something Mark wants us to see? Given that woman were generally not highly regarded at this time in history why would Mark include a story where all the men – the religious leaders, Judas, and the disciples - failed to recognize Jesus as the Christ, but the woman did?
If this had been your time in history where would you have been? Would you have looked away in embarrassment because someone was so unrestrained in their devotion? Would you have concluded Jesus was more trouble than he was worth and abandoned him? Would you have given everything you had to honor Jesus?
Over the next seven days as we conclude Mark’s gospel there will be movement, back and forth, in the responses to Jesus. The response that counts the most is the one we make at the conclusion of the gospel.
What word or phrase in these verses
attracts your attention?
Reflect on that word or phrase.
What insights come to you?
How does this passage touch your life today?
15-Nov-11 Mark 14:32-52
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