Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him. Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus' feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), said, "Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?" (He said this not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief; he kept the common purse and used to steal what was put into it.) Jesus said, "Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me."

I can remember the smell of my grandmother's house every Sunday afternoon when we would go, after church, for Sunday dinner. The kitchen would give off the spicy odor of German cooking while "oompah" music played in the background. There would be laughter and loud conversation, teasing and a real sense of belonging for all - first-time guest or regular - at Grandma's table.

Our Lenten journey is swiftly moving toward its conclusion. Mary, joining her sister Martha and her brother Lazarus in welcoming Jesus to their home and table, brings out the very best gift of their lives and labors and lavishly shares it in love for their guest. Her gift was so lavish, in fact, it filled the house with its fragrance and odor.

It's a story that reminds me much of going to Grandma's for Sunday dinner. It was lavish, there was plenty for everyone and to share with others. There was always room for an extra and everyone was invited. No, literally - everyone was invited. There were so many regulars - and still Grandma would call each of the family each week and invite us to dinner! A dinner we came to, year in and year out, week after week - and she would remind us to bring a friend.

As Holy Week gives way to Easter, whom should you call and invite to the table?! Who will you invite to Easter "dinner" at God's house? We can be sure it will be lavish and there will be plenty for everyone and to share with others. There is always room for an extra and everyone is invited!