Isaiah 42:1-9
Hebrews 9:11-15
John 12:1-11
Psalm 36:5-11

Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped it with her hair…Jesus said, “…She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.”

Jesus was heading to Jerusalem where he knew he would be put to death. During the end of his ministry, he tried to prepare his followers for this. He gave them instructions on what to do after he was gone. He chose a leader for the apostles. He assured them he would prepare a place for them. He even made arrangements for the care of his mother as he hung from the Cross.

Many of us are nearing the end of our journeys here, and we often think of the preparations we need to be doing for that time. We check on our insurance policies and wills, distribute family treasures to our loved ones, try to mend broken relationships, and get “right” with our God. It is not a scary task to prepare, but a holy and comforting one. Just as Jesus prepared himself and his friends, it is up to us to do the same. With God’s help, it can be a joyful and blessed journey.

Loving God, just as your Son faced his death by preparing in many ways, help us to do the same as we approach the day of our journey to be with you. In His name we pray, Amen.
-Penny Worrell