Gospel Reading: John 12:17–50 (or Matthew 26:6–16 – the anointing at Bethany / the plot of Judas)
Beloved in Christ,
Today, on this most solemn Holy Wednesday, the Church calls us to contemplate the mystery of betrayal and repentance, and to examine the state of our own hearts. Just as the Lord approached Jerusalem to fulfill the will of the Father, so too does He approach each of us, inviting us to respond with love, humility, and faithfulness.
We recall the words of the Prophet:
“Behold, the Lord comes, and all flesh shall see the salvation of God” (Isaiah 40:5).
Yet, even as salvation draws near, the shadow of sin and betrayal is already upon Him. On this day, we remember the treachery of Judas Iscariot, who, for thirty pieces of silver, sold the Lord of Glory. How easily the human heart can be swayed by greed, ambition, or the fleeting pleasures of this world! Let us examine ourselves: are there betrayals hidden in our own hearts? Do we, by our words or deeds, deny Christ in small or secret ways?
And yet, in the same Gospel, we also behold Mary of Bethany, who anointed the feet of Christ with costly perfume and washed them with her tears. Here is repentance, humility, and true love. She gives generously without thought of gain, offering her very best to the Master, preparing Him for His burial. Her act cries aloud to us: “Repent! Offer your life wholly to God! Do not cling to the fleeting, but give yourself to the Eternal!”
Holy Wednesday, therefore, stands as a threshold. The betrayal of Judas reminds us of the peril of turning from God, and the devotion of Mary reminds us of the power of repentance. Both call us to make a choice: to cling to the world or to cling to Christ.
Let us then, beloved, approach this day with prayer and fasting, with tears and humility. Let us pour out our hearts like Mary, anointing the feet of the Lord with our love. Let us cast out the Judas that lies in our passions, our pride, and our indifference. Let us turn, as the prodigal son, toward the Father, for His mercy is boundless and His love unceasing.
As we journey together through these Holy Days, let us not pass by in silence or indifference. Let us open our hearts to the Lord, that we may enter into the joy of His Resurrection. For He is near, and His grace is sufficient. May our repentance be genuine, our love sincere, and our faith unshakable, so that when we stand before Him on Pascha, we may hear the words of the Bridegroom:
“Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25:21).
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
Now and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.
