all eyes on jesus | worth the extravagance

While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head. Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, “Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages[a] and the money given to the poor.” And they rebuked her harshly. “Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her. Mark 14:3-9, NIV

While dining in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, a woman enters, holding an alabaster jar filled with costly perfume. Breaking the jar, she pours the fragrant oil on Jesus' head, anointing him with it. The unnamed woman saw Jesus through the lens of profound gratitude and recognised him for who he truly was. Her response was an extravagant outpouring of love.

The act of breaking the alabaster jar symbolises the complete surrender of her most prized possession. It was an act of vulnerability, revealing her unwavering devotion to Jesus. The fragrance of the perfume filled the room, changing the atmosphere. Likewise, her love permeated the space, leaving an eternal imprint on the hearts of those present.

As we reflect on this account, we are challenged to see Jesus as the woman in Bethany does. To recognise the immeasurable value of having him in our lives. To question whether we are be willing to break our alabaster jars, surrendering our most cherished possessions as we devote ourselves to him.

Let’s pray
Forgive me for those times when I have taken your presence for granted, Lord. Help me to respond to you today with a love that is willing to break open the most precious parts of my heart and life in unparalleled adoration of you. Amen.