Today begins Holy Week - the last week of Jesus' life before His crucifixion. The first two verses of Mark 14:1-11 highlights the conspiracy against Jesus by the chief priests and scribes to have Him put to death. The last two verses (Mark 14:10-11), shows how the betrayal of Jesus was cemented by Judas' offer and the authorities' acceptance.

However, sandwiched in between (Mark 14:3-9) is the love of a woman for Jesus before His death. She comes to Him, breaks a jar of very costly perfume, and pours it all on His head. Suddenly, the conspiracy fades. The betrayal stinks! The moment freezes, as if on film forever. It is not a stunt. It is the real thing!

When was the last time you loved Jesus? Loved Him enough to do the most "preposterous thing", the "unthinkable"? When was the last time you dared to love Him no matter what others said, or how they may have felt? We know Jesus loves us - the cross tells us so! By what sign, symbol, or act, does Jesus know that we love Him? During this Holy Week, let us examine our love for Jesus in the unfolding love drama of the last week of His life. Do we dare to love Him?