Today's reading is the breathless account of events immediately preceding Jesus' crucifixion. There is an odd story of Jesus being anointed by a nameless woman, as a dead body would be anointed before burial. Then a final meal, including the first instance of Communion. Then some final moments of prayer with the close disciples before Jesus' arrest and questioning by religious authorities.Against this, the shadow of Jesus' death grows darker and more lonely. Not only are people plotting against Jesus, but one of his own disciples agrees to betray him. And even while Jesus is enjoying some final moments with the disciples, he recognizes that all of them will abandon him by the end of the night -- even impulsive Peter, who will completely disavow having ever met Jesus
[links to Bible Gateway open in a new window]
Reading the Bible in Its Entirety
If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read Mark 11-13 today.
