You Will Not Always Have Me

As we enter the season of Lent, we find ourselves at a unique intersection of spiritual reflection and worldly distraction. While Christians around the globe unite in a 40-day journey of introspection and renewal, the outside world buzzes with the excitement of NCAA basketball tournaments and other secular pursuits. This contrast serves as a powerful metaphor for the choices we face in our spiritual lives – do we focus on the temporary thrills of the world, or do we seize this opportunity to draw closer to God?

The story of Jesus in Bethany, occurring just six days before Passover, offers us profound insights into this spiritual dichotomy. As Jesus sets his eyes toward Jerusalem and the impending crucifixion, we witness a poignant moment that challenges our perspectives and invites us to see through a divine lens.

In this familiar setting, surrounded by friends like Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, an unexpected act of devotion unfolds. A woman – identified in some gospels as Mary, in others as a "sinful woman" – approaches Jesus and anoints his feet with costly perfume, drying them with her hair. This intimate gesture immediately stirs controversy among the onlookers.

The reactions to this act of worship reveal two distinct perspectives: the earthly and the heavenly. Those viewing the scene through an earthly lens see only impropriety and waste. How could a holy teacher allow himself to be touched by a known sinner? Why pour out such expensive perfume when it could be sold to help the poor?

Yet Jesus sees beyond these surface-level concerns. He recognizes the beauty and significance of the woman's actions, understanding that she is preparing him for the difficult journey ahead. "Why are you bothering her?" he asks. "She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me."

This moment challenges us to examine our own perspectives. How often do we judge situations or people based on superficial understanding? Are we quick to criticize acts of devotion or generosity that don't align with our logical, earthly calculations?

The season of Lent invites us to shift our gaze – to see the world and our faith through Jesus' eyes. It's a time to recognize that while we are called to continual service and care for those in need, we must also prioritize our relationship with God. Jesus' words remind us that there are seasons of special intimacy with the Divine, moments we must seize and cherish.

This brings us to a crucial understanding of our faith journey. Too often, we view spiritual growth as a linear progression – a steady climb from a starting point of initial belief to an ultimate goal of closeness with God. However, this perspective can lead to frustration and discouragement when we inevitably face times of feeling distant from God.

Instead, we might consider our faith journey more like a labyrinth. As we walk this winding path, there are moments when we feel incredibly close to the center – to God's presence. Other times, the path leads us to what feels like the outer edges, far from that central point. Yet we remain on the journey, always moving, always seeking.

This labyrinthine view of faith acknowledges the ebbs and flows of our spiritual lives. There are seasons of intimacy and seasons of perceived distance. The key is to recognize and fully engage in those moments when God feels near, while trusting the path even when the center seems far away.

Lent offers us one of those precious seasons of drawing near. It's a time when the entire Christian community collectively focuses on spiritual practices and reflection. This shared intention creates a unique opportunity to experience God's presence in profound ways.

How, then, can we make the most of this Lenten season? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Intentional Disconnection: Consider "fasting" from things that distract you from God's presence. This might mean limiting news consumption, reducing time on social media, or stepping back from other sources of anxiety and negativity.
2. Spiritual Practices: Take on new habits that nurture your connection with God. This could include daily prayer, meditation, Scripture reading, or participating in a Bible study.
3. Shift Your Perspective: Practice looking at situations through a "heavenly" lens. When faced with challenges or confusion, ask yourself, "How might Jesus see this?"
4. Embrace Community: Engage with fellow believers during this season. Shared spiritual experiences can deepen our individual connections with God.
5. Acts of Service: Remember that caring for others is an integral part of our faith. Look for ways to serve those in need, but balance this with time for personal spiritual growth.

As we journey through Lent, let us hold close the words of Jesus: "You will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me." This is not a dismissal of our duty to serve others, but rather an invitation to recognize and cherish those moments when God's presence feels especially near.

May this Lenten season be a time of renewed perspective, deeper connection, and transformative encounters with the Divine. As we walk the winding path of faith, may we find ourselves drawing ever closer to the heart of God, ready to see the world – and ourselves – through His eyes.