Isaiah 42:1-7 / John 12:1-11 (2017, 2020)
Much has been said about this attitude of materialism and consumerism, this urge to have more material things and having more than necessary.
With this attitude of materialism and consumerism, the side-effect is this "throw-away" mentality.
Anything that is spoilt or broken is to be thrown away. There is no point in repairing it.
Especially with electronic goods; it may make more economical sense to buy a new set than to repair something that has malfunctioned.
That "throw-away" mentality has, in a way, affected the way people are treated.
Those who are slow, dull, unproductive, don't look good and don't speak well, or a liability to society, they are often devalued, discounted and disconnected from the rest.
Not often are they given a second chance, simply because of this "throw-away" prejudice against them.
Certainly that's not the case with God. In the words of the 1st reading : He does not break the crushed reed, nor quench the wavering flame.
Indeed, every person is precious in the eyes of the Lord, and every act of love is treasured by Him.
In the gospel, Jesus accepted that act of love from Mary even though there was a criticism against it.
For Jesus, every act of love, big or small, is treasured by Him because it comes from the heart.
As we enter into the spirit of Holy Week, let us also deepen our spirit of love.
Every act of love is treasured by God as we offer it to Him.
Nothing that we offer Him is ever thrown away or discounted or devalued.