Tuesday, March 26, 2024

I believe one of the most precious moments in Jesus’ life happened only a couple of days before his arrest and crucifixion. I find it so poignant because of the sacrifice this woman made to honor Jesus.

Mark 14:3
Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy. While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard. She broke open the jar and poured the perfume over his head.

Such jars of alabaster were fashioned to contain something of worth and sealed to prevent the contents from being contaminated or evaporating. The jar of perfume was exceptionally valuable, worth a year’s wages. I can’t imagine the overwhelming feelings of love and devotion that must have driven her to pour the treasured contents over Jesus. I would like to think I love him that much to make such a sacrifice.

Some in attendance that day scoffed at the woman’s wastefulness (Mark 14:4-5). Jesus, however, recognized her devotion.

Mark 14:6-9
⁶ But Jesus replied, “Leave her alone. Why criticize her for doing such a good thing to me? ⁷ You will always have the poor among you, and you can help them whenever you want to. But you will not always have me. ⁸ She has done what she could and has anointed my body for burial ahead of time. ⁹ I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman’s deed will be remembered and discussed.”

What a promise! 

I would much prefer to be remembered as this woman, a devoted follower, than as one of Jesus’ disciples who ran away at the first sign of trouble, denied knowing him, and couldn’t believe he had returned from the dead until they stuck their fingers in the nail holes on his wrists! 

Sure the disciples went on to do great things for the Kingdom, but this woman trusted Jesus before the resurrection even happened! She gives us all something to aspire to—a similar level of love and devotion for our Lord and Savior!

Questions: 
Has following Jesus created a desire in you to sacrifice something valuable? Is there something you could give to show your love and devotion to him? Time? Talent? Resources?

Next Steps: 
Micah 6:8 tells us what God requires of us:

“No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” 

In the context of the sacrifice shown in Mark 14:3, ask God what sacrifice you might make to do what is right, to love mercy, and/or to walk humbly with your God. Share your thoughts with your Group or a trusted friend and ask them to hold you accountable for that sacrifice!

Prayer: 
Heavenly Father, thank you so much for the examples in your Word that show me how to love you! You are worthy of all my honor and praise. Since all I have was given by you, it is my joy to offer it back. Help me love people into your Kingdom as I wait for your return. Let me not shy away from whatever sacrifice I can make that brings you glory. Amen.

This post was written by Lauri White, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.