This Is My Body: Jesus Shares God’s Dream in Mark 14:1–26

Mark 14.1-26

In this passage, the chief priests and scribes plot to arrest Jesus, while a woman anoints him with expensive perfume, preparing him for burial. Judas agrees to betray Jesus, setting the stage for his arrest. Meanwhile, Jesus celebrates the Passover with his disciples, instituting the Lord’s Supper and sharing bread and wine as symbols of his body and blood. This moment reveals the depth of Jesus’ love and the cost of God’s Dream for the world.

What is attractive about God's Dream?

The scene of the woman anointing Jesus is a striking image of devotion and love. Her act of generosity and care transcends the criticism of those around her, reminding us that God’s Dream values the heart’s intention over outward appearances. It’s a moment of beauty and preparation, showing that even in the face of betrayal and death, love can still shine.

The Lord’s Supper is another attractive moment. Jesus shares bread and wine, offering his disciples a tangible reminder of his presence and sacrifice. This act of communion invites us into a relationship with God that is intimate, sustaining, and marked by grace. At Christmas, this moment reminds us that God’s Dream is not distant but comes close, meeting us in the everyday elements of life.

What is challenging about God's Dream?

The betrayal of Judas is difficult to confront. It’s a stark reminder of how easily humanity can reject love and turn away from God’s vision. This challenges us to examine our own hearts: Are there ways we betray God’s Dream through indifference, selfishness, or fear?

Jesus’ words about his body and blood also challenge us to reflect on the cost of love and redemption. The dream of God’s kingdom comes through sacrifice, and Jesus invites us to follow him in a way that is not always easy or comfortable. This call to self-giving love can feel daunting, especially when it requires us to let go of control or comfort.

What is transformative about God's Dream?

This passage transforms our understanding of communion as a shared experience of God’s grace and love. The bread and wine remind us that Jesus’ sacrifice is not just an event in history but an ongoing invitation to participate in God’s Dream of renewal. It’s a moment of connection that transcends time and space, uniting us with Christ and with one another.

At Christmas, this transformation takes on deeper meaning. Just as Jesus shared the Passover meal with his disciples, he shares his very presence with us, inviting us to embody his love in the world. This passage calls us to live sacramentally, letting the grace we receive flow outward in acts of love, generosity, and faithfulness.

Pray:

God of love and sacrifice, your Son gave himself for us, sharing bread and wine as a sign of your dream for the world. Teach us to live in communion with you and one another, and to embody your love through acts of grace and generosity. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.