In ancient times a woman from the streets of Bethany, emboldened by faith and gratitude, came into Jesus’ presence carrying a jar of fragrant nard.  May we also, here in this place, be emboldened by faith, and show our gratitude to God for being recognized and accepted.  Let us ask questions.  Let us challenge what we have been taught, and find release from outmoded customs, binding cultural thinking, ancient taboos, misreading of scriptures, memories of old injuries that have crippled our relationships and limited our growth.

Open our ears to the words of Jesus, still fresh, still full of hope:  “I have come that you might have life and have it more abundantly.”

Amen.