Day Thirty-Five: A Fragrant Offering of Love
Monday of Holy Week

Scripture Passage:
“Then she dried his feet with her hair, and the house was filled with the ointment’s fragrance.”
— John 12:3

As Holy Week begins, we are drawn into one of the most tender scenes in Scripture. Jesus sits at table with His close friends Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. With heartfelt devotion, Mary approaches Him, breaks open a costly jar of perfumed oil, and anoints His feet. This simple yet profound act of love fills the house with fragrance and the moment with grace. It is love expressed not through words, but through sacrifice, humility, and tender care. Mary’s gesture invites us to draw close to Christ this week not with mere routine, but with intimate, extravagant devotion.

Judas reacts with criticism, questioning the practicality of the gift. Yet Jesus defends Mary, reminding us that true love is never wasted. Her action becomes prophetic, a preparation for His burial, and an expression of something deeper than logic: undivided love for the Savior. As we begin this sacred week, let us reflect on how we too might bring a “fragrant offering” to Jesus not only through our service to others, but in acts of direct love and worship.

Now is the time to give our Lord our full attention. Can we sit at His feet in prayer, even when the world beckons us to other tasks? Can we adore Him in the Blessed Sacrament, spend time in silence with Him, or pour out our hearts in gratitude? These are not wasted moments they are the very essence of our discipleship.

Reflection Questions:
When was the last time I did something for God that seemed excessive to others? Do I sometimes hesitate to show my devotion for fear of what people might think? How can I express my love for Jesus more fully this Holy Week?

Lenten Question:
Q: Is worship as important as serving the poor?
A: Yes—both are vital expressions of love. Jesus reminds us that adoration and direct acts of devotion to Him are central to Christian life. Serving the poor honors Christ in others, while worship honors Him as Lord.

Lenten Action:
Let go of a long-standing grudge and offer true forgiveness, imitating Mary’s humble love and Jesus’ mercy. Then, set aside time today to adore Christ through prayer, silence, or a visit to the Blessed Sacrament.

Concluding Prayer:
Jesus, my God, You are worthy of all praise and adoration. I adore You present in the Blessed Sacrament, in the silence of my heart, and in every moment of this sacred week. Teach me to love You with Mary’s devotion, to honor You not only with duty but with overflowing affection. May my actions today fill Your heart with joy and be a fragrant offering of love. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen.

Resources for Lenten Prayers and Reflections:

Daily Saints and Reflections | https://dailyreflectionswithphilomena.com/

Lenten Reflections | EWTN | https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/reflections/lent

Lenten Prayers and Daily Reflections | My Catholic Life | https://mycatholic.life/lent-prayers-reflections/