By pouring that oil on my body, she prepared me for burial.
Jesus reveals the prophetic meaning of the woman’s act. What seemed to the disciples like a pointless action was in fact a sign of his coming death and burial (or funeral). The woman, guided by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, did what the others did not understand: she anointed the Lord’s body, preparing it for the path to the cross. Jesus shows that his approaching death is not accidental, but part of God’s saving plan. Thus, the woman’s act becomes not only a sign of love, but also a sign of faith, by which she unknowingly takes part in the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice. This word also reminds us that God’s works are often not understood in the present moment, but later are revealed as part of the eternal mystery.