Extravagant Worship, Pure Nard Perfume, Devotion to Christ, Humility in Service, Preparing for Jesus' Burial, Heart of Worship, Eternal Priorities, Selfless Service, Jesus and Lazarus, Bethany, Christian Humility, Worship and Sacrifice, Fragrance of Worship
"Mary of Bethany Anoints the Messiah" — In reverent stillness, she kneels—her tears a liturgy, her hair a veil, her nard a prophecy. In that tender act, the fragrance of burial meets the radiance of resurrection.
The Extravagant Love of Mary:
A Devotional on John 12:1-11
The events of John 12:1-11 take place in Bethany, a small village near Jerusalem, just six days before the Passover. Jesus is at the home of Lazarus, whom He had recently raised from the dead. This gathering is a celebratory meal, likely hosted in gratitude for the miracle. In this time and culture, hosting a meal was a significant act of hospitality and honor. The anointing of Jesus by Mary with expensive perfume reflects a profound act of devotion, as such oils were often reserved for special occasions or burial preparations.
In this passage, Mary, the sister of Lazarus, anoints Jesus' feet with a costly perfume made of pure nard and wipes His feet with her hair. This act of worship fills the house with the fragrance of the perfume. Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' disciples, criticizes her, claiming the perfume could have been sold to help the poor. However, Jesus defends Mary, explaining that her act of love is in preparation for His burial. Meanwhile, the chief priests plot to kill Lazarus because his resurrection is leading many to believe in Jesus.
John 12:3: "Then Mary took about a pint of expensive perfume, made of pure nard, and anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume." Mary's act of anointing Jesus is a profound expression of love, humility, and worship. The use of her hair to wipe His feet signifies complete surrender and devotion, breaking cultural norms to honor her Savior.
John 12:7: "Leave her alone," Jesus replied. "She was intended to keep this perfume to prepare for the day of My burial." Jesus acknowledges the prophetic significance of Mary's act, pointing to His impending death and burial. Her worship is not only personal but also deeply connected to God's redemptive plan.
Mary's extravagant act of worship challenges us to consider the depth of our devotion to Christ. Her willingness to pour out something of great value reflects a heart that treasures Jesus above all else. In contrast, Judas' response reveals a heart focused on self-interest and material gain. This passage invites us to examine our priorities and motivations in worship. Are we willing to give Jesus our best, even when it costs us something significant?
Offer Your Best to God: Like Mary, consider what you can offer to Jesus as an act of worship. This could be your time, talents, or resources. Let your worship reflect the value you place on your relationship with Him.
Embrace Humility in Service: Mary's act of wiping Jesus' feet with her hair demonstrates humility. Look for ways to serve others selflessly, reflecting Christ's love in your actions.
Focus on Eternal Priorities: Judas' criticism highlights the danger of misplaced priorities. Evaluate your life to ensure that your focus remains on eternal treasures rather than temporary gains.
What does it mean to you to offer your "best" to Jesus in worship?
Are there areas in your life where you struggle to prioritize Christ over material or worldly concerns?
How can you cultivate a heart of humility and selfless service in your daily life?
In what ways can you prepare your heart to honor Jesus, especially during significant spiritual seasons?
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the example of Mary’s extravagant love and devotion. Help me to worship You with a heart that treasures You above all else. Teach me to serve with humility and to focus on what truly matters in Your kingdom. May my life be a fragrant offering that brings glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
"One thing I have asked of the LORD; this is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and seek Him in His temple." —Psalm 27:4
This week, identify one area of your life where you can offer something valuable to God as an act of worship. Whether it’s your time, a financial gift, or an act of service, let it be a reflection of your love and devotion to Him.
