Exotic

"You always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me," Matthew 26:11.

That's what Jesus said to his disciples as they criticized a woman for wasting a fortune in exotic fragrances on him. Just think how much good that could have done to feed poor people, orphans, or widows. I mean, it was a lot (!) of money that she squandered. We'd think that Jesus would agree with his disciples. But we'd be wrong. Jesus does not care about quick-witted criticism of someone else. Jesus cares for what a person does with what a person does have. Actual action. Not for intentions: if only they had opportunity and means ... After all, Jesus' feeding agenda begins with two loaves of bread. Anyway. She, said Jesus, prepared him for burial. What was that worth?

We take opportunity today to visit with a brother or sister to share with each other God's bounty, freely given. And, together, we thank Jesus that he shared in our poverty so that we might share his wealth. Praises to you, O God!