An Act of Love & Worship
Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. John 12:3
Lazarus, Martha, and Mary gave a dinner in Jesus’ honor, shorty after Jesus rose Lazarus from the dead. These three siblings were Jesus’ close friends and His followers. As Jesus reclined at the table with everyone around, in a beautiful action showing her love and gratitude to Jesus, Mary worshipped Him by pouring an expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet and then wiping them with her hair.
This was a very profound act, and we might have reacted in a way like some of Jesus’ disciples did, thinking it was a waste of money that should have been given to the poor. But Jesus saw it for what it was—an act of sacrifice that pointed ahead to the preparation for His burial.
If we can picture for a moment being in that house after Mary poured out the perfume, we can imagine the fragrance filling the house. Even of greater significance was the impact it had on everyone who witnessed it. Jesus said that Mary will be remembered for this wherever the gospel is proclaimed. Today we are still moved and inspired by Mary’s love for our Savior.
Selfless acts of service and sacrifice tend to spread. People talk about them, describing what they’ve seen or experienced. Their stories can even inspire others to do selfless acts as well. Through acts like this, the love, compassion, caring, and kindness of Jesus are spread through our actions.
Maybe you are being called, in honor of Jesus, to do some act of humble service today. And maybe that act will unleash a fragrance that spreads to others.
Loving Christ, help us to see where You are calling us to serve others. Use us to spread the aroma of Your love. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Amen.
Inspired by a Today Devotion