In our study last week, Judas made a suggestion about a better use for Mary's spikenard than "wasting it on Jesus."  His suggestion was in harmony with clear instructions from the Old Testament but it was tainted with a hidden motive...he wanted to steal the money for himself.  The question was never really answered however, "What about the poor?"  Judas didn't have anyone particular in mind.  He used the term "the poor" in the way that many use it today...to raise a level of guilt and angst over the needy of this world.  Politicians and preachers do the same thing.  Guilt is not a good motivator but it is a strong one.  Do you feel guilty for having more than someone else?  Do you feel guilty for living in this country?  For having a job?  For driving a car?  Is a vague guilty feeling that hangs like a rain cloud over our heads what God really wants?  Is there something worse than poverty?  What should we do about the poor?  Who are they anyway?  We hope to address these questions on Sunday and provide direction and hope from the Word.  Thoughts welcome.