WEDNESDAY
Matthew 26:6 While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table.
Recommended Reading: Matthew 26:1-16
Jesus likely spent the night in Bethany. Two things happen. Judas conspired to hand Jesus over and in the evening Mary anoints Jesus with costly perfumed oil. Judas objects but Jesus rebukes him and says Mary has anointed him for his burial! Mary had spent time at Jesus’ feet in wonder listening to His Word; she spent time at the feet of Jesus in her darkest hour believing that Jesus would perform a miracle; and now she is extravagantly giving at His beautiful feet that will soon be bloodied. The amount in this vase was worth an entire year’s wages and yet Mary lavishly poured it over the body of her Savior. Jesus will die as a criminal; only criminals’ bodies were denied the societal anointing of spices and perfume after death. Mary’s act of love saved Him from the disgrace of a criminal’s death. This quiet woman was so filled with devotion and love that she considered no sacrifice too great for Jesus. Will you spend heartfelt time with Jesus’ this week? Will you allow your worship to spill over into lavish giving as you contemplate the price that He paid for your life?
