Thursday, 21 August, 2003

From William C. Placher’s “Narratives of a Vulnerable God”



In speaking of Jesus:

Mark uses every strategy to say two things at once: yes, this is the Messiah, the greatest of miracle workers, the Son of God, but, no, that does not mean at all what you thought it meant. Irony is the rhetorical device best suited for saying, “Yes, but no,” and the ironies grow as the story progresses. Jesus enters Jerusalem on a little colt: it is at once a humble and slightly silly ride and the fulfillment of a messianic prophecy. He is anointed as were the kings of old, as the Messiah ought to be, but by an unnamed woman, and in a context where the act only generates controversy and presages his death. Through most of the Gospel, Mark has presented wonders in ways that undercut our expectations. Now the irony reverses, and he presents tragedy in a way that hints at wonder. Jesus sorrowfully ascends the Mount of Olives, accompanied by three followers who protest their loyalty, only to be betrayed by a trusted associate. It is a story of defeat, but it exactly parallels the story of David at the time of Absalom’s rebellion – David the greatest king, the source of so much messianic imagery.



Right when we think we have it…no…not quite like that. I am particularly taken by the use of the story of the “unnamed woman” who anoints Jesus. Not only is there no name to call upon as the story is told, the mere action is offensive to those present. The offense is again one that comes at the sight of the Messiah not on site as one would want the Messiah to be present. In a success driven society and religious culture of today, how can we begin to see again the wonder of such a story that turns our expectations on their heads…and hands us a whole new vision?



Connection: “Yes, but no.” This is a tension that must be with us as we continue to be called followers of Jesus. Release the tension and we miss the unique and always new vision of God’s Reign.



In the events of this day that seem like no event at all, you are present and waiting for us to trust in your life of love and mercy and hopefulness. Be our encouragement and sustain us by your grace, O Lord. Amen.