Rev Sue Brown reflects on the Gospel of John, chapter 12, verses 1-8, focusing on the anointing of Jesus by Mary with expensive nard. She discusses the story's sensory details, emphasizing its significance to first-century Jews. Brown connects the story to modern issues of poverty and extravagance, highlighting the tension between Jesus' teachings on caring for the poor and the extravagant act of Mary. She calls for a balance between stewardship and generosity, urging followers to be extravagant in their devotions, worship, and love, especially towards the poor and needy, and to appreciate the extravagance in God's creation.