Today's scripture readings contrast the treachery of Judas.....

Today's scripture readings contrast the treachery of Judas who betrayed Christ for money, with the sinful woman who anointed the head and feet of our Lord with a very costly ointment (myrrh & nard), wiping them with her hair. Upon solemn meditation the extreme dichotomies between these two individuals is vividly portrayed:

The sinful woman brought oil of myrrh to anoint Christ, while Judas brought his greed to the Sanhedrin. The woman gladly poured out the very precious ointment on Jesus, while Judas craftily made plans to sell the One who is above all price. The woman spread out her hair to wipe the Lord's feet, while Judas stretched out his hands for thirty pieces of silver. By anointing Christ, the woman acknowledged Him as Lord and was set free of her sins, while Judas severed his relationship with the Master, becoming entrapped and enslaved by the devil. Sadly, the ultimate contrast is that this woman tenderly kissed the feet of Christ, asking for forgiveness, while Judas betrayed the Lord with an intimate kiss upon the cheek.

Fr. John