Daily Catholic Lectio
Mon, 14 April ‘25
Monday of the Holy Week
Isaiah 42:1-7. John 12:1-11
Six Days before Passover
A Table, a Scent, and a Shadow: Six Characters Before the Cross
Today’s gospel reading begins with an expression ‘six days before the Passover’. Six days before the Passover, Jesus comes to Bethany. Time is short. The shadow of the Cross looms large. Yet in this moment, a simple meal becomes a sacred drama. Let us reflect on six figures at the table with Jesus.
1. Mary – The Heart That Loves
“Mary took a pound of costly perfume… anointed Jesus’ feet.”
Mary’s action is bold, beautiful, and prophetic. She sees what others do not. Love makes her generous, and her act becomes a silent proclamation of Christ’s death and burial.
Do I express my love for Jesus openly, without fear of others’ judgment?
2. Martha – The Heart That Serves
“Martha served…”
Martha says nothing here—but her silent service is not lesser. She shows love in action, quietly making space for the Lord.
Do I serve with humility, finding holiness in ordinary tasks?
3. Lazarus – The Living Witness
“Lazarus was one of those at the table with him.”
Once dead, now alive—Lazarus doesn’t speak, but his very presence testifies to Jesus’ power over death. He becomes a silent evangelist.
Does my life bear witness to the transforming power of Christ?
4. Judas Iscariot – The Masked Heart
“Why was this perfume not sold…? He said this not because he cared for the poor…”
Judas hides greed behind piety. He critiques devotion without understanding it. His heart is closed.
Do I sometimes use noble words to hide selfish motives? Do I resist genuine expressions of faith?
5. The Chief Priests – The Fearful Power
“They planned to put Lazarus to death as well…”
Lazarus becomes a threat to those who fear losing control. Fear can lead even religious leaders to violence.
Does fear of losing influence prevent me from welcoming God’s work in others?
6. The Crowd – The Curious Followers
“They came not only because of Jesus but also to see Lazarus…”
The crowd is drawn by signs, but not all will stay for the Cross. Curiosity must become conviction.
Am I following Jesus for signs and blessings—or am I ready to walk with Him to Calvary?
Jesus – The Silent Centre of Love
In this scene, Jesus speaks little but receives everything. He accepts Mary’s offering, endures Judas’ criticism, and faces the crowd with quiet dignity. Like the Servant in Isaiah, “He will not cry out or lift up his voice,” yet He will bring justice with compassion. Jesus, the Light and Salvation of Psalm 27, is the humble King who enters the shadows—for us.
Am I willing to sit with Jesus, to love, serve, and witness—before I follow Him to the Cross?
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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