Previous Devotions                                                                               003

For reading and meditation- Matthew 26:6-13

"While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of a man known as 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.

When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. "Why this waste?" they asked. "This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor."

Aware of this, Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.""

Thoughts for consideration-

Jesus was pleased and appreciated her act of service. Think about your own acts of service in the kingdom of God , however seemingly small. How does this passage encourage, motivate, challenge, affirm, direct or puzzle you?

In what other areas of your life could you apply the principals from this passage?

The woman in this passage inspires me greatly, not only does she show quiet spiritual discernment (anointing Jesus for His burial) but in her seemingly small gesture of love she presents her best before her Lord. Extravagant, some might say? No, excellent, Jesus replies. 

What this lady poured out cost her dearly, even the Elders were beside themselves at what they considered a poor investment. But Jesus was pleased and appreciated her act of service because it was motivated by love.

Oh Lord, how I long to give you my best in everything, out of thankfulness and adoration to You. Grant me discernment, that I might hear the gentle whisper of your voice, so that I might be bold enough to be extravagant for You. Amen.