The Oasis - April 16, 2025
Author: Rev. Eric Dupee
April 16, 2025
“After all, Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did. She just did it backwards and in high heels.” That’s a quote from former Texas governor Ann Richards. I’ve had it on my mind as I reflect on the Easter story this year. Greetings, to you in the middle of Holy Week, in which we follow the last week Jesus spent in what we might call his earthly life.
The week began on Palm Sunday. In worship, we marked the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on a donkey. On Maundy Thursday, we will commemorate the institution of the Lord’s Supper with a service in Fellowship Hall. On Good Friday, we will mark his death with a service at the church.
Wednesday of Holy Week is a traditional time to recall the anointing of Jesus by Mary. The twelve disciples just weren’t getting it. No matter how many times Jesus predicted his death and resurrection, they did not believe it. Repeatedly, they misunderstood his instructions. Eventually, Judas would even betray Jesus into the hands of his killers. But on Wednesday, Mary demonstrated the fact that she understood. She took expensive ointment and poured it over his feet as a symbol of anointing his body for burial. Jesus praised her for doing so. Some have made the argument that Mary was the first true believer.
I love that when it comes to some of the key moments in the life of Jesus, women take center stage. The women tend to be in the right place and doing the right things. Depending on which gospel you read, it is either a group of women or a solitary woman that discovers the empty tomb on Easter morning. During this Easter week, I just want to say thank you to the women that have taught, mentored, helped, and inspired me.
Blessings,
Eric
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