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Devotions

Here and Now

A week before he is arrested, Mary seems to be the only one besides Jesus who grasps the significance of this moment.

Read John 12:1-8.

A week before he is arrested, Mary seems to be the only one besides Jesus who grasps the significance of this moment. She expresses extravagant love and gratitude for all that Jesus has done – bringing her brother back to life, creating space around the table for those who would otherwise not be welcome – and a sense of the impending danger that lies ahead. Rather than being paralyzed by fear and dread, Mary practices being in the moment. She practices presence in the here and now.

With everything going on in the world today, it is easy to be caught up in fear and dread. What is happening here and now that is worth celebrating, worth fully experiencing? How might being present to the here and now help in processing and responding to an uncertain future? As you read this, take a moment to be fully present. What sights, sounds, and smells surround you? What can you reach out and touch? For a minute or two, breathe deeply and quietly repeat to yourself, “Here and now.”

In prayer, offer thanks to God for the gift of the present moment.