April 6th Virtual Worship
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Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, April 6, 2025 Fifth Sunday of Lent
Scripture Reading: Mark 14:3-9
Sermon: Extravagant Love
Mark 14:3-9
While he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at the table, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very costly ointment of nard, and she broke open the jar and poured the ointment on his head. But some were there who said to one another in anger, “Why was the ointment wasted in this way? For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii, and the money given to the poor.” And they scolded her. But Jesus said, “Let her alone; why do you trouble her? She has performed a good service for me. For you always have the poor with you, and you can show kindness to them whenever you wish; but you will not always have me. She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for its burial. Truly I tell you, wherever the good news is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in remembrance of her.”
Key Idea of the Sermon
Jesus is loyal to the reign of God not Rome, which is why a Roman cross awaits Jesus on the Friday of Holy Week. The teachings of Jesus we will study during Lent have added weight because they are spoken in Jesus’ final days. Today’s topic invites reflection on the central theme of Jesus’ teaching—love of God, neighbor, and self. This oft repeated theme cannot be overemphasized; it all comes down to love. As an old church camp song puts it: they will know we are Christians by our love.
Questions for Reflection
• This story highlights the difference between human worry about scarce resources and trust in God’s abundance to provide for all needs. How have you experienced God’s grace meeting your needs?
• Jesus receives with gratitude the extravagant gift of love. It was exactly what he needed as he prepared for his arrest, suffering, and death. What extravagant gift of love do you have to offer Jesus? • The woman’s kindness was remembered by Jesus and is remembered by us as we read her story. What memory of kindness do you cherish?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Some give up an unhealthy habit during Lent, others take on a healthy spiritual practice to grow closer to God during Lent. Choose one or the other that is most helpful to you and stick with it. If you need help reach out to your pastors.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
