Gospel: March 30, 2026
March 30, 2026 (Monday)
Monday of Holy Week
Psalter: Week 2 (Violet)
Ps 27:1, 2, 3, 13-14
The Lord is my light and my salvation.
1st Reading: Isaiah 42:1-7
Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight. I have put my spirit upon him, and he will bring justice to the nations. He does not shout or raise his voice. Proclamations are not heard in the streets.
A broken reed he will not crush, nor will he snuff out the light of the wavering wick. He will make justice appear in truth. He will not waver or be broken until he has established justice on earth; the islands are waiting for his law.
Thus says God, the Lord, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread the earth and all that comes from it, who gives life and breath to those who walk on it: I, the Lord, have called you for the sake of justice; I will hold your hand to make you firm; I will make you as a Covenant to the people, and as a light to the nations, to open eyes that do not see, to free captives from prison, to bring out to light those who sit in darkness.
Gospel: John 12:1-11
Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where he had raised Lazarus, the dead man, to life.
Now they gave a dinner for him, and while Martha waited on them, Lazarus sat at the table with Jesus.
Then Mary took a pound of costly perfume, made from genuine spikenard, and anointed the feet of Jesus, wiping them with her hair. And the whole house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
Judas Iscariot—the disciple who was to betray Jesus—remarked, “This perfume could have been sold for 300 silver coins, and the money given to the poor.” Judas, indeed, had no concern for the poor; he was a thief, and as he held the common purse, he used to help himself to the funds. But Jesus spoke up, “Leave her alone. Was she not keeping it for the day of my burial? (The poor you always have with you, but you will not always have me.)”
Many Jews heard that Jesus was there and they came, not only because of Jesus, but also to see Lazarus whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests thought about killing Lazarus as well, for many of the Jews were drifting away because of him, and believing in Jesus.
Reflection:
Sacrifice and Devotion
Sacrifice and devotion are the themes of this gospel passage, illustrated by Mary pouring expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet, which provokes Judas’ criticism. Her gesture symbolizes profound love and commitment, demonstrating that true devotion often involves personal sacrifice. When Jesus defends her by saying, “She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial,” He emphasizes the significance of her actions in light of the impending death.
Just as Mary meaningfully expresses her devotion, we can also find ways to demonstrate our care for others. This may involve small acts of kindness, spending quality time with family and friends, or engaging in difficult conversations that strengthen our relationships.
The essence of this passage encourages us to reflect on what it truly means to value those we love. Sometimes, sacrificial love can be misunderstood or criticized, as Judas demonstrated. Yet the message is clear: genuine acts of love can honor and uplift those we care about. By embracing our opportunities to make sacrifices, we strengthen our connections and create a lasting legacy, reminding us that we often receive so much more in giving.
