Tonight, we witness a moment of extraordinary devotion. Jesus comes to Bethany, to the home of His dear friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. It is a place of comfort, a brief respite before the trials to come. Yet even here, the shadow of the cross lingers close.

In this sacred encounter, Mary takes a pound of costly perfume, pure nard, and anoints Jesus’ feet. The fragrance fills the house—a tangible act of love and reverence that speaks volumes beyond words. It is an offering not only of beauty but of sacrifice, for the perfume is worth a year’s wages.

Mary’s actions are bold and uncalculating, a love poured out without reserve. She sees what others do not; she understands that this moment calls for the fullness of devotion. And though Judas protests, questioning the extravagance, Jesus affirms her gift. “She has kept it for the day of my burial,” He says, acknowledging the depth of her understanding and her love.

Holy Monday invites us into Mary’s story, asking: How do we pour out our love for Christ? Are we willing to act boldly, to offer our best without reservation, even when others do not understand?

As the perfume lingers in the air, we are reminded that devotion is not wasted—it is transformative. Mary’s love becomes a prophetic act, anointing Jesus for the path He will soon walk. And in her humility, kneeling at His feet, she shows us what it means to give of ourselves entirely.

Tonight, may we carry the fragrance of this story in our hearts, seeking ways to love and serve Christ boldly, as Mary did.