Very Expensive Perfume

Have you ever given away something that was very special to you? Maybe it was a family heirloom or a pricey item that you originally bought for yourself? If so, was it hard to give away?  Were you the slightest bit hesitant or felt pressured in the process? Or, did it bring you a lot of joy?

Check out this verse...

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. John 12:3 

In John 12:3, we see a woman named Mary, take a jar of very expensive perfume and pour it over Jesus’ feet during a dinner party. Not only that, but Mary wiped His feet with her hair. Seems strange? I’m sure Mary thought that her act of kindness would be well received. But instead, the dinner guests became very upset with her. Everyone that is, accept Jesus.

You see, Jesus knew Mary’s heart and that she was giving up her expensive perfume as an act of worship. Yes, it had cost Mary a lot – about a year’s worth of wages. But, she wasn’t focused on the perfume or anyone else in the room. Mary was focused on Jesus.

Sometimes our worship can be costly. Like Mary, are we willing to give up our time to help others? Maybe put aside our own desires for what we know will please God? Will we give something valuable away to a friend or stranger that is in need?

Let's challenge each other today with this question... How can we worship Jesus today by giving sacrificially? What can we do to keep our focus on Him and not worry about what others think?

Mary’s story reminds us what’s most important. When we give our time, talents and even our resources to other it’s a beautiful expression of worshiping Jesus. By serving and loving on those around us we are also serving Christ.

If you've done some special lately for a friend, family member, or someone you didn't even know, I'd love for you to share your story by leaving a comment. Be sure to include how this special act of kindness made you feel

Wanting more? Check out these additional Scripture verses:

Ephesians 6:6-8 1 Peter 4:9-11 Acts 20:35