I have lived most of my life on the Canadian Prairies—"big sky country." The saying that you can see the weather coming for three days is a bit of an exaggeration, but not without truth. Summer storms are visible for many hours before they arrive, usually giving ample time for people to head for cover.

The threat of a storm usually makes us change our plans. If there's a "thunderstorm watch" on, we make sure we have alternative plans for the day, in case the "watch" becomes a "warning." When an actual warning is issued, we may curtail our plans for picnics or outings, and make sure we are close to shelter, ready to take cover when it hits.

Holy Week always feels a bit like the arrival of one of these storms. It begins with a clear and joyous day, as we celebrate the triumphal entry into Jerusalem, but as the week progresses, Good Friday's noon darkness looms ever closer, like a monstrous storm about to break over our heads.

The week's Gospel readings convey that sense well. Today's is almost the same as that for Lent 5 in this year, Mary's anointing of Jesus at Bethany. Mary's action looks ahead to what is coming. Jesus will die, but for the moment, he is present at the table with Lazarus and his disciples. What will come will come, but the clouds are gathering on the horizon, and Mary begins to make ready.

The thunderstorm watch has become a warning.
Let us make ourselves ready.