Stations in the life of Jesus: (4) Bethany - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom he had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with him. Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.
John 12:1-3.

Stations in the life of Jesus: (4) Bethany
The village of Bethany lies on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives about two miles from Jerusalem. Here Jesus was always welcome at the home of Lazarus, Martha and Mary.

When Jesus was there for the first time, Mary sat at His feet, listening to Him. Martha, however, was fully occupied caring for the large number of guests. She complained to the Lord about her sister and received a surprising answer: "One thing is needed," and Jesus praised her sister for listening. From this we learn that there is nothing more important than paying attention, when God speaks to us (Luke 10:38-42).

On another occasion there was mourning in Bethany, because Lazarus had died. The sympathy and love that Jesus showed to Martha and Mary is moving, before He then resurrects His friend Lazarus from the among dead. By means of this miracle He proves His power as the Son of God.

Jesus finally visited Bethany six days before He went to the cross. His friends prepared a meal for Him. We wonder whether Mary knew something of His forthcoming suffering from her attentive listening, for she anointed His feet to show her devotion to Him.

(to be continued on Thursday)

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 7:11-22 · 2 Timothy 4:1-8