Readings for the week of 11/22-11/28/2009
Matthew           Mark           Luke           John
 

Whether intentionally present for the feast or there for other reasons, Jesus is in Jerusalem in December during the eight-day Feast of Dedication, known more modernly as Hanukkah. This feast was instituted as recently as 164 B.C. by Judas Maccabaeus in commemoration of the refurbishing of the temple after it had been profaned for idolatrous use in 168 B.C. by Antiochus Epiphanes. Faithful Jews are gathering in Jerusalem in order to celebrate the rededication of the temple, and Jesus takes this opportunity to reach out to the large number of people present.

Continuing his ministry, Jesus once again teaches through numerous parables. His parables cover a wide range of subjects, including the cost of discipleship, the value of lost souls, the rejection of his kingdom, the need for humility, and the unrighteousness of hypocritical religion.

John records one of the most poignant events found in all of the Gospel accounts which is the raising of Lazarus from the dead. This, of course, is such a dramatic and conclusive demonstration of Jesus’ power that his opponents call a hasty conference and immediately plot to kill him. Aware of the danger, Jesus withdraws northward to the town of Ephraim, near the wilderness. And from here, the final days of Jesus’ life and ministry begin to count down.

Jesus once again blesses little children and once again reminds those who would follow him of the burdens they must bear. As he has done twice before, Jesus again tells of his impending death. And there are more parables to be taught and still more people to be healed.

Surely it is a constant source of discouragement to Jesus-even in these last days, and after repeated lessons on humility-that his disciples are still seeking personal glory in the kingdom. Even now the apostles continue to think only in terms of an earthy kingdom. James and John, prompted by their mother, ask that they be given special positions. Jesus admonishes them, pointing to the spiritual nature of his kingdom and to the need for humility and service.

There is at least one person who already seems to understand about Jesus’ mission and his call for humility. That person is Mary, the sister of Lazarus. As Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem comes to an end, the Gospel accounts tell the beautiful story of Mary anointing Jesus with precious ointments. It will be a touching prelude to the brutal events of the final week.