Read:

Mark 14:3-6 “While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head. Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, ‘Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.’ And they rebuked her harshly. ‘Leave her alone,’ said Jesus. ‘Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me.”

Mark 14:8a “She did what she could.”

Think:

During the week of Jesus’ crucifixion, he avoided large public appearances. He did not meet with influential leaders. Instead, he went to the house of Simon the Leper, a man known not for wealth or achievement, but for illness.

At dinner there, Mary of Bethany approached Jesus with an alabaster box of expensive perfume. She broke it open and anointed his feet, offering her most valuable possession.

Mary’s actions showed she knew Jesus was about to be crucified. She was thanking him for raising her brother Lazarus and securing her future. Unconcerned with appearances, she openly expressed her love and devotion.

The disciples saw Mary’s act as wasteful, but Jesus called it praise. “She has done what she could,” he said. Like Mary, we should embrace every chance to serve and love Jesus. Can we say we have done all we can to show him our love?

Apply:

You may never eat with the highest officials or run with the who’s who in the community, but do you, like Mary, do what you can to show your love for Jesus? Evaluate your devotion to our Savior. Are you offering praise with your lips and lifestyle? How about stewardship of your gifts and talents? Do you serve in your local church? Are you extravagant with your finances? Do you care for those in need?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you that you ate with people who were on the fringes of society. Thank you for showing us the way. Help me to love you, to adore you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.