When Criticism Becomes Revelation

The Fifth Sunday in Lent

The sermon this week is based on John 12:1-8. Jesus seeks out a familiar retreat setting at the home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus. The family throws a dinner party for Jesus and two things happen that Dr. Luke finds noteworthy: 1) Mary anoints Jesus with an exorbitant offering of a pint of very expensive perfume; and 2) Judas, who keeps the finances for Jesus and his disciples, objects to the extravagance of Mary’s offering, revealing his own greed.

We will learn of a refrain from C. S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia, Aslan, the great Lion says, “I am telling you your story, not hers. I tell no one any story but their own.” There are times when God has to tell us to “mind our own business.” And there are moments when we become critical of others that reveal what’s in our own hearts. This is an important “word” for our Lenten journey.

This Sunday will also include special music provided by guest flutist, Mary Hargrove and Jan Gunderson on the piano.