Anointing of Jesus by Mary at Bethany
There is only one anointing that is strong enough to meet death and that is the anointing of the Holy Spirit, the love of God. There is, then, something that is both exemplary and lasting in Mary’s anointing of Jesus at Bethany. It was above all a concern to keep Christ alive in this world and to oppose the powers that aimed to silence and kill him. It was an act of faith and love. Every such act can have the same effect.
Pope Benedict XVl
Become silent, aware of the awesome presence of God who never ceases to be with us.
Bless yourself in the + Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall, world without end. Amen.
Here I am Lord, I come to do your will
Read: Psalm 103:1-5
Personal Prayer and recollection; As well as thanking and giving praise to God, we remind ourselves of the needs of our family, friends, community, wider world and we remember especially all those affected by Covid-19 and we remember our own personal needs.
We know that you are with us Lord. You never leave us or abandon us in our need. I now open my ears and my heart to listen to your voice coming to me through the Holy Gospel.
Read: The Holy Gospel according to John 12:1-11
Silent meditation on the Gospel: Is there a sentence or paragraph that seems to resonate with me? What is my reaction to it?
Maybe read over that part of the text a couple of times, reflecting and praying with it. If you wish you can use the Lectio Divina process outlined here.
Give thanks to God for what he has revealed to you during your prayer time.
Conclude your prayer time with:
Our Father; Hail Mary; Glory be. Act of Spiritual Communion
May your protection, O Lord, we pray, defend the humble and keep ever safe those who trust in your mercy, that they may celebrate the paschal festivities not only with bodily observance but above all with purity of mind. Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
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Wednesday of Holy Week 8 April
