Why waste such expensive perfume? Mark 14:4

A few days before Jesus was falsely accused, sentenced, tried in a trial that was a mockery, and executed (soon to defeat death and be raised back to life by the power of the Holy Spirit), He was at the home of Simon, a man whom Jesus had healed of leprosy. “While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume…she broke open the jar and poured the perfume over his head.” (Mark 14:3) It was worth a year’s wages. Judas indignantly asked, “Why this waste?” Jesus defended her extravagant action and graciously received her generous gift. Perhaps the fragrance of that perfume was still on Jesus when he was whipped and scorned and crucified. Perhaps that sweet aroma refreshed his aching soul.

Jesus still receives rejection and scorn. Fists are raised in defiance to the gift of His love. What can we give Him today that would refresh His soul? What extravagant gift could you offer that would bless Him in His suffering? Those like Judas may criticize you, but Jesus will affirm you. Perhaps it’s a sacrifice of praise, simply taking time to lift your hands in thanks. Perhaps it’s an extravagant gift for the poor, for, “As you do to the least of these, you to me,” said Jesus.

Father,

What can I do to bless your Son today?

What do I have that I can give? 

Teach me to give extravagantly, for He gave everything for me.

Amen.