Mary’s story

There are many characters who appear in Jesus’ final days before he is crucified. Some have journeyed a long way with him; others are meeting him for the first time. Some speak; others are silent or their words are not recorded, but they are still active participants in his story. During Lent 2026, some Kairos people have been reading these stories, noticing the people around Jesus and using our imaginations to share in their experiences. We offer our creative reflections to invite you into the story too.

A woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume while he shares in a meal at Bethany shortly before his crucifixion. John’s gospel names her as Mary; in the other gospel accounts she is unnamed and silent. (Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8)

Nard – Penny Birch

Sold, for my weight in gold.

I was sold too cheap, as would another be.

Carried by donkey, laboured from afar,

birthed to the sound of the pestle.

Fragrance of woods, fragrance of earth.

The cool, heavy stone sealed. Too precious, entombed.

Waiting, waiting, patiently awaiting

my sacrificial destiny, an eternity –

when she lifts my cold alabaster whiteness

in her faithful, gentle, oh so resolute arms.

A fracture, a shattering of fragments.

Confusion of heat, dust, light; of voices raised.

And oh! My unctuous amber riches

poured, poured out, anointing.

Such love, such precious love!

Fragrance of woods, of earth, of cross and grave.

All that I am is for this shining moment.

My Lord. My Lord.

Fragrance of wood and earth,

of cross and grave.

Mary – Helen Brocklehurst

She brings her best – the precious nard that fills

the alabaster bottle in her palm.

When violent men conspire to have him killed

how can mere perfume keep him safe from harm?

With love, and grieving for the loss she fears

she breaks the jar; sweet fragrance fills the room.

As she anoints her king with nard and tears,

she tenderly prepares him for the tomb.

Men rebuke her, money their agenda

but they can’t calculate the cost of peace.

Jesus understands, speaks to defend her.

His priceless blood poured out buys our release.

Her gift infuses his last struggling breath

with scent of love more powerful than death.