Genesis 15:6, "Abraham believed the LORD, and the LORD considered his response of faith as genuine loyalty."
John 12:3-5, "Mary, therefore, took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, ‘Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?'"
It's easy to get distracted and bogged down with so much busyness that God slips from the top slot on our list of priorities. But throughout the Bible, we see that God looks for faithfulness demonstrated through obedience; God expects obedience to what He says as an expression of loyalty.
Mary demonstrated pure-hearted devotion as she anointed Jesus with expensive perfume. In a willful act of worship, she recognized Jesus for who He was and openly expressed her faithfulness, her loyalty to God the Son.
Conversely, Judas was a "faith-fool," more concerned with lining his pockets than prioritizing God. Sure, he expressed concern for the poor, but we know that if he was willing to sell out the Savior for silver, it's doubtful that he genuinely cared about anyone but himself. He failed to recognize Jesus for who He was. And, unfortunately, his disloyalty led him to a horrible place.
Here's the truth: everyone shares the destiny of who they choose to worship. Mary found eternal life, and Judas did not. It's a question of faithfulness. Are you a Mary or a Judas? Where does your loyalty lie - with your own self-interests or Christ?
God places a high priority on faithfulness. What specific actions in your life demonstrate your commitment, your loyalty to God? Make a list of these actions and evaluate them. Then, in a second column, write any areas where you have a pattern of disobedience. What changes do you need to make so that your life is marked with faithfulness rather than faith-foolness?
Dear God, I know that faithfulness to You is paramount. May my actions always be an expression of my loyalty to You. Thank You for the gift of salvation found through faith in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.