(based on John 12:1-8)
Before he headed toward Jerusalem,
Jesus came to the town of Bethany.
All his friends rejoiced as he greeted them;
Tonight he alone was the honoree.
Lazarus shared an anecdote or two;
Martha was a hostess culinary.
Then it happened, before the meal was through!
Suddenly all eyes were fixed on Mary.
Humbly and quietly, she took a pound
Of pure nard oil and knelt before the Lord.
Martha was speechless; Lazarus, spellbound.
Mary's tears sprinkled the oil as she poured.
Taking her time, she anointed his feet
And then began to wipe them with her hair!
Judas, indignant, stood up from his seat:
"We should have sold it for the poor's welfare!"
Jesus rebuked him: "Let her be!" he said,
"For the poor you will always have with you.
She'll keep it for my burial instead."
Weep at his feet was all Mary could do.
And as she continued, the house was filled
With the mesmerizing scent of the oil.
With the mesmerizing scent of the oil.
And the windows sighed; and the breeze was thrilled
By a deed no treacherous foe could foil.
Mary raised her head, and her soul was stilled.
Two bright, merciful eyes shone from above.
She poured out her heart, and her heart was filled
By a truer fragrance: his words of love.
© 2021 David Acosta
