Anointing at Bethany

Day 3

Read: John 12:1-11 (NIV)
12 Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 3 Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4 But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. 7 “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. 8 You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.” 9 Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, 11 for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him.
 
Reflect:
Mary anointed Jesus with costly perfume as an act of extravagant love and devotion. Consider how you can pour out your own love and devotion to Jesus in worship and service.

1. How can you express your love for Jesus in a similar way?
 
2. What sacrifices are you willing to make for Him?


Application:
Consider how you can show extravagant love for Jesus today, whether through acts of worship, generosity, or service to others in His name.

1 Comment


Ana - March 28th, 2024 at 1:10pm

For me I don’t think there is any real extravagant way to show love Jesus I love Him except to serve Him. We can give Him everything we have but if I’m not willing to serve with a heart like His then everything I do is not worth it. Everything I give is empty and corrupt. The only sacrifice I have that is worth giving is my free will for Him to have His way. It’s all that I have that truly matters in making a difference that is of significance.