Matthew 26:1-16 Jesus Anointed at Bethany

After arriving in Jerusalem, Jesus announced to his disciples that it was a matter of days before his death by crucfixion. The chief priests and the elders were plotting to arrest him and kill him. It is at this time that Judas Iscariot offers them his services for thirty pieces of silver and seeks for an opportunity to betray him. Hatred and betrayal are at their peak. 

In the midst of such high tension, the Scriptures paint one of the most beautiful pictures of worship to Jesus. Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, brings a pound of ointment made of pure nard. It was a very expensive perfume used for very special occasions and it was valued at the total wages for a worker in a year. Combining the perspectives from Matthew and John (12), she anointed Jesus, head and feet, and wiped his feet with her hair. Jesus called it a "beautiful thing" unto him as she unknowingly prepares his body for his burial.

For many, this act of worship was a waste. In fact, some questioned why the perfume wasn't sold and the proceeds given to the poor. Jesus intervenes on behalf of Mary and declares that there will always be opportunities to serve the poor, but not many opportunities are left to serve him due to his impending death. Jesus was pleased while the world was angry.

Giving my best to honor Jesus is never a waste. It is a beautiful thing. A heart of worship does not put a price tag on what it offers. It is not ashamed to display its passion and fervor in public. It does not care about the criticism of others. It is not afraid to honor and exalt the worth of Jesus. True worship is to offer my best in humility for the glory of my Lord.

Lord, I want to honor you as you deserve. May I always give you my best without fear of criticism. May I never hold back anything from you.