The exact time log of the events of Wednesday are more difficult to define than the previous days, but the events themselves are clear.

The chief priests and scribes had a specific agenda of quietly arresting Jesus (Mark 14:1-2).

At the same time, Jesus dined in Bethany at the home of Simon the Leper. Mark does not record Jesus’ having gone to Jerusalem.

Wednesday ended with Judas Iscariot going to the chief priests in order to betray Jesus to them. The chief priests rejoiced over the decision because Judas solved the problem of how they could arrest Him without causing an uprising. At that point, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus. The events of Wednesday are found in Mark 14:1-11.

The events at the home of Simon the leper indicate that even at this late point in the ministry of Jesus people were still divided over who He was and what He came to do. When the unidentified woman broke the jar of costly ointment over Jesus’ head some of those at table (both members of the twelve and others) reacted with indignation over wasting something of such great value.

Jesus defended her and her actions. His response about the poor is not insensitivity or any justification for our being uncaring. He brought everyone back to understand He would not be with them long. Already, Jesus had given notice three times He would be delivered up to death (Mark 8:31; 9:31; 10:33). His words in Mark 14:8 also alluded to His coming death.

Notice what Jesus said about the woman. “She has done a beautiful thing to me.” We could also add she had done a beautiful thing for herself. Our worship glorifies and exalts God,and it blesses us.

Jesus told His followers that what she had done would be told in memory of her wherever the gospel is preached. Even today, that is certainly the case. In the days before His death, she prepared Him for His burial.

What should we affirm from this day of passion week?

First, evil is very much a part of our lives, and we are all susceptible to carrying it out. Isn’t it amazing who delivered Jesus to be crucified? Religious leaders and one of Jesus’ own disciples came together to destroy Him.

Second, let us worship and exalt our Lord this week and for all of our lives. Let us be remembered for our devotion to Christ as the woman with the alabaster jar.

Third, let us give thanks to God for our redemption. Why did Simon give a dinner party for Jesus? Had Jesus healed him? Why did the woman anoint Him for burial? Was she showing her great love for her redemption?

In some sense, we all fit in those categories. Let us give thanks and adoration to our Lord for what He has done for us. That will prepare us for this week.

Each day this week we will look at the what Jesus did during His last week of earthly ministry. Please join us each day as we discuss the events of holy week and their meaning for us. You may find these daily posts at www.waylonbailey.com.

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