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Lent     Lent 5     John 12:1-8

Anointing of Jesus’ feet (YC No 175)

This story gives the sign;

Argument and strife combine;

Dispute expands with each episode;

Jesus knew plans were laid;

Hatred had been displayed;

He knew that conflict would explode.

He went to Bethany,

But he still refused to flee

From all the threats to kill him there;

Dear friends supported him;

His plight intensely grim;

He needed such support and care.

His friends were quite subdued;

His dear Martha gave him food;

Then Mary did something beautiful;

Poured costly perfume sweet,

Anointing both his feet;

The sweet smell was so wonderful.

She then unloosed her hair;

Wiped his feet with tender care;

Jesus was overwhelmed; in tears;

This act for burial,

A love memorial

Gave strength for him to face his fears.

Judas could not be quiet;

Said this drama was not right;

“This perfume should have been sold instead

And used to help the poor.”

He stopped; he said no more;

But, Oh! - the shame, at what he said.

 “Leave her alone!”, he cried;

Jesus was quite horrified;

Others then joined in a close embrace;

They knew their Lord was strong

When he confronted wrong;

But they all feared what he must face.

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