Carry On

by Kaji Douša | published on Jul 11, 2026

But Jesus, understanding, said to them, “Why are you making this trouble for the woman?” – Matthew 26:10 (as translated by Wilda C. Gafney in A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church: Year B) 

Have you ever carried something in your spirit that would not let you go? A truth you had to name. A step you knew was yours to take. A calling that kept pressing on you, even while other voices tried to press it back down. 

I think that’s where Mary is when she comes to Jesus with her beautiful, alabaster vessel: vulnerable, exposed, risking shame. The balm costs a fortune. The guys are loud and pretty reasonable in their objections to what she’s done. They’re polished, responsible.  

They just aren’t speaking for Jesus. 

Jesus understands her. 

He understands what it costs to stand there with your offering in your hand while other people question your judgment. The ache beneath the act itself. How quickly shame tries to settle into the body and make a home there. 

That is why this story reaches me so deeply. Truth is, when you carry out God’s call, even with deep clarity on what it is you’re called to do, you will face obstructions. Which bring the strain of being unable to move when your spirit is already leaning forward. The toll of holding your ground while logic, fear, and resistance gather around you is so much to bear. 

Jesus doesn’t leave Mary alone in that moment. He intervenes. He protects her anointing. 

There are moments when what God placed in you feels heavier because of the resistance around it. Even then, Jesus understands. Jesus turns toward you.  

So carry on. God is able to keep you steady all the way to pour out your gift. 

Prayer
Holy One, keep me steady in what you have called me to carry. Guard me from shame, strengthen me under strain, and help me trust your care as I pour out what you have placed in my hands. Amen.

Kaji DoušaAbout the Author
Kaji Douša is the Senior Pastor of The Park Avenue Christian Church, a congregation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ, in New York City.