Introduction:
Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, is also remembered for her extravagant act of worship in anointing Jesus with costly perfume. This event, recorded in John 12:1–8, demonstrates her deep love, faith, and spiritual insight. Mary’s story inspires believers to worship sacrificially and focus on what truly matters—Jesus.
1. Mary’s Sacrificial Gift
Mary’s anointing of Jesus with expensive perfume was a profound act of devotion. The perfume, made of pure nard, was worth nearly a year’s wages, symbolizing the depth of her love and worship.
- Scripture Support: “Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair” (John 12:3).
- Life Application: True worship often requires sacrifice—of time, resources, or even reputation. What costly offering can you bring to Jesus as an act of love and devotion?
2. Mary’s Spiritual Insight
Mary’s actions were not just a display of love; they also showed her spiritual understanding. She anointed Jesus in preparation for His burial, recognizing the significance of His mission.
- Scripture Support: “She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial” (Mark 14:8).
- Life Application: Seek to grow in spiritual insight through time with Jesus. When we are close to Him, He reveals deeper truths about His will and purpose for our lives.
3. Jesus’ Defense of Mary
When others criticized Mary for “wasting” the expensive perfume, Jesus defended her, commending her worship as an eternal act of devotion.
- Scripture Support: “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me” (John 12:7–8).
- Life Application: Worship Jesus with a heart that seeks to honor Him, regardless of how others might perceive your devotion. True worship is between you and God.
Life Applications:
- Worship Sacrificially: Reflect on areas of your life where you can offer something valuable to Jesus.
- Focus on Eternity: Like Mary, prioritize eternal matters over temporary concerns.
- Trust Jesus’ Approval: Don’t let criticism deter your devotion. Seek to please God, not people.
- Grow in Understanding: Spend time in prayer and God’s Word to gain spiritual insight into His plans.
Teaching Questions:
- What does Mary’s act of anointing Jesus teach us about sacrificial worship?
- How can we focus on eternal values rather than temporary concerns?
- What are some ways we can offer “costly” acts of worship in our lives?
- Why is it important to seek Jesus’ approval over others’?
