Holy Script

Mary of Bethany Anoints Jesus John 12:1-8 in Its Context  Within the narrative world of John's Gospel, this passage acquires a good deal of meaning through its connections to other scenes and themes. Mary's gift, along with Judas's stinginess, has greater significance because of how it participates in a series of developments.  Passover is near, and so too is Jesus' "hour" (see 13:1). He spends time with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus soon after the pivotal scene of Lazarus's revivification (11:1-44).  That is the "sign" that brings many to believe in him (11:45; 12:9-11), many to flock to him (12:17-19), and others to plot his death (11:47-53).  When Jesus mentions his burial in 12:7, this confirms that his end is coming.  Yet Lazarus's presence at the table confirms that death does not speak the final word.  Jesus forges the connection between the anointing and his burial in 12:7, a verse that has proved challenging...

The Secrets of God's Glory Acts 12: 22. And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.  Acts 12: 23. And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him because he gave not God the glory, and he was eaten of worms and gave up the ghost.  When you celebrate your achievements, you tell the whole world that you are happy with yourself and with the outcome of your efforts. Most importantly you tell them about how good the Lord has been to you.  However, we often hear the sad news about famous people after they enter into stardom. We can make a tall list of great men in sports, academia, politics, media etc. who faced serious problems after achieving the great feat.  The wrong handling of their success led them into alcoholism, drug abuse and various vices. Some are still battling with cocaine addiction and others have seen their untimely deaths.  Anybody who tastes success in any field can be trapped into thes...