Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.”
John 12:7&8
Dear members and friends,
Having a clear understanding of anything could be a very challenging matter because of two unavoidable realities: uncertainty of the matter itself and the uncertainty of the mind of the person who is trying to understand. What makes the task even more challenging is the fact that there seems to be no such thing or matter that just exists as it is within a human community. Perhaps this is why King Solomon asked for an understanding heart to God. Everything that is related to humans seems to exist within the context of attached meanings and values, which are often personal and subjective. Thus, many human problems seem to arise from the differences or misunderstanding of meanings and values. In a way this is how two well-intended people could end up opposing each other until one is no more. Yet, at times such struggles are artificially caused by certain people who claim “my way or the highway.” Such a mindset does not give any other options to those who are not in agreement except to stand against them. This often causes extreme turmoil and schism among the members of the community.
One mission of Jesus was to challenge people about the meanings and values upon which they build their lives. The most fundamental challenge from Jesus is, therefore, to acknowledge that our meaning and values were initially formed and developed by our minds, while they are engaged and attached to the physical world. Thus, it is unavoidable to face the critical challenge of reformation of our meanings and values if we were to unite with God in heaven. This truth is symbolically illustrated in John 12 by Mary washing the feet of Jesus. Mary was pursuing a special and unique task of anointing Jesus’ feet despite the fact that it would not have been perceived as a good work by others.
My brothers and sisters in God, let us take a moment of prayer this week. Let us pray for our country, our fellow citizens, our sons and daughters, and our very selves. Let us try to understand the values and meaning of our lives in such a way they would make us better beings.
Blessings,
Rev. Junchol Lee