The Anointing

"Truly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.” Matthew 26:13

Love’s Prophetic Act

Magdalene Speaks:

I broke the jar.
The scent filled the room, as if the soul of the oil had been waiting for this.
I anointed His feet, His head.
I saw Him so clearly then. Not just as teacher, not just as beloved
But as an eternal mystery and message that would change everything.

The others chastised me, the costly oil was an extravagance.
But He called it preparation, and more
Because in that moment, He saw me too.
And together we would stay through it all

No Matter What

Reflection:

The anointing is a moment of spiritual authority and recognition—a priestess anointing the king, the sacred vessel, for His final path. Mary Magdalene pours out not just oil, but herself. Her knowing, her love, her sorrow. Her soul.

Jesus calls it 'preparation.' He proclaims that she will and must be remembered forever for this. It is an act of courage. It is an eternal vow.

This moment is often forgotten in traditional tellings of Holy Week. Even when the anointing is told, rarely do we hear a priest speak Jesus' words of praise.

Mary Magdalene honors the truth that the others do not yet understand. She sees what will come and is resolute in their need to hold His remaining time as sacred space. They may take Him, they may break his body, but they will never break his spirit, or hers. She will hold Him through it all.

No Matter What

Discussion Questions / Journal Prompts

· • Why do you think Magdalene’s act of anointing is so rarely emphasized in traditional teachings?

· • What does it mean to prepare someone for transformation or transition, not just with words, but with presence?

· • How do you recognize moments when love asks for bold, unapologetic action? Can you think of a time in your life when you were called to do something difficult in the name of love?

If you had one moment to anoint someone you lovekn ,owing it might be your last chance, what would you say, offer, or do?**

Write a blessing you would speak over them. Then write one for yourself.

** As I wrote this prompt I had to take a big breath. I have been there, been the death doula for someone I loved. When my husband Filip was dying, just five months after we were married, I was called to hold him while he was taken off life support. I had to find the strength to be there for him, and not be drowning in my own grief. Magdalene was my role model for that, as for everything which came after.

*Closing Mantra:*
I see the truth, and I do not turn away. I anoint the path with love.