CANDLES

We light a light in the name of the God who creates life, the savior who loves life, and the Spirit who is the fire of life. Be still and aware of God’s presence within and all around.

 

READ: JOHN 12:1-11

 

PONDER

What word or phrase stands out to you in the reading? What is striking about Mary’s intimate act in anointing Jesus’s feet? What emotions do you feel when you read this? What would it look like if we treated “the poor who are always among us” the way that Mary treats Jesus?

 

ACT: EXTRAVAGANCE

In your home, do an act of extravagance as an act of worship to God. Is there a food that you gave up for Lent? Eat it today with joy. Is there a bottle of wine that you have been saving? Drink it today. Does your family have a favorite dessert? Enjoy it. Whatever you do, do it in remembrance of Jesus. And before you partake, ask God to open your eyes and your hearts to the poor who are always with us, so that we may lavish such grace and extravagance on them as we do ourselves.

 

PRAY

Almighty God, whose dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.