Luke 7:36-8:3
This text is used for the Lectionary Year C on June 12, 2016.
On first read, we might be tempted to conflate Luke’s version of the anointing of Jesus with all the other versions we know, much as we tend to do with the story of the so-called “rich young ruler.” Each Gospel tells a story of a woman with an alabaster jar, who anoints Jesus while he sits at table. Among the four stories, Luke’s is distinct, with very different emphases than in the other Gospel accounts.
Matthew and Mark tell the story in nearly the same way (Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9); John’s version (John 12:1-8) differs in certain details but not in substance. All three writers see the scene similarly – the expressed concern of the others at the table is over the squandering of a precious resource. In contrast, Jesus affirms the lavish offering as a beautiful gift and a preparation for his burial.
