September 2, 2007

The nation of Israel failed to see that the greatest problem they had was not external, such as Rome, but was internal—their own sin. As a result, they failed to see what sort of a Savior and Messiah they needed. In this passage, we see a sharp contrast between Mary's loving and worshipful anointing of Jesus and the hatred and betrayal of Jesus' many enemies. At the same time, we are reminded that all – both true and false disciples – have need of a savior. We see God's provision for us in Jesus' death and are regularly reminded of it in our celebration of the Lord's Supper.