Matthew 26

Read: Matthew 26

Matthew 26:6-8 “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. When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. ‘Why this waste?’ they asked.”

Think

Imagine the scene from Matthew 26. Jesus is dining at Simon the Leper’s house in Bethany. Mary, overwhelmed with love and devotion, enters with an alabaster flask of very expensive perfume. She approaches Jesus, breaks the jar, and pours the precious ointment on his head and feet. Her actions speak volumes about her reverence and repentance, as she wipes his feet with her hair, letting the fragrance fill the room.

The alabaster flask she brought was no ordinary container; it held perfume likely worth a year's wages. This was a significant sacrifice, symbolizing her willingness to give up her most valuable possession for Jesus.

We each have our own "alabaster jars"—things we hold dear and are called to surrender to God. These might include our relationships, careers, or even our fears and anxieties. Jesus values our faithfulness more than the quantity or perceived importance of our gifts. It's not about how much we have, but what we do with what we have. Are we willing to pour out our lives in service and devotion to him? Are we ready to let go of what we hold most dear and trust him completely?

Mary didn't hesitate; she broke her jar and poured out its contents, symbolizing total surrender and love. Mary's act of worship was intentional and costly. She didn't worry about what others thought; she acted out of pure love and devotion to Jesus. As she wiped his feet with her hair, the fragrance of the ointment filled the room, and its sweetness lingered on her. In the same way, when we offer our lives in worship and service to Jesus, he responds with his presence and blessing. Let Mary's example inspire us to ask, "How do I respond to the One who gave his life for me?" True worship is never a waste—it's a beautiful offering to our Savior.

Apply

What are you holding back from God? It might be relationships, career, possessions, or even fears and anxieties. Write them down and pray for the strength to surrender these to Jesus.

Pray

Jesus, may my life be an offering to you. Give me strength and wisdom to let go of my fears and insecurities, the things that hold me back from fully trusting you. Draw me closer into your presence. In Jesus’ name. Amen.