Holy Wednesday - Plot Against Jesus

On the Wednesday of Holy Week, the religious leaders finalize their plans against Jesus. Matthew, Mark, and Luke “interrupt” their plotting with the story of the woman who anoints Jesus for burial. John’s Gospel, however, informs us that this anointing took place six days before the Passover (thus, it actually occurred before the Triumphal Entry). In presenting this woman’s story in the context of the religious leaders’ bargain with Judas, Matthew, Mark, and Luke highlight the contrast of her extravagant generosity with Judas’ greed and self-centeredness.