ScriptureMatthew 26:8-98 When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. “Why this waste?” they asked.9 “This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.”Observation - What does it say?Jesus was at the home of Simon the Leper, reclining at the table, when a woman broke an alabaster jar of expensive perfume and poured it on Jesus’ head. Mark tells us (Mark 14) that the jar was worth a year’s wages. The disciples watching were annoyed, perplexed and frustrated by what they perceived as a waste.
Understanding - What does it mean?People who don't see through the eyes of love, will always be critical of love's extravagant expressions.
The disciples saw this extravagant expression of love, this act that Jesus referred to as “a beautiful thing,” as a waste. In this passage, the disciples are contrasted with this woman. The disciples were focused on the things of this world while the woman was focused on Jesus. One was focused on the money that could be produced by the perfume, the other was focused on the love that could be expressed by it. One was motivated by the love for money, the other was motivated by a love for Jesus.
At the end of it, the woman was defended and honored by Jesus and the disciples were reprimanded by him.Life ApplicationChoose to love extravagantly!I would rather be “wasting” my life on loving Jesus – my time enjoying his presence, my resources on loving him and others, and my talents on serving his people. I would rather be the one worshiping, than the one critically observing others as they worship. I would rather be honored by Jesus than reprimanded by him!God, forgive me for the times I’ve seen things merely from a worldly perspective! Forgive us for judging others. May we be those who worship extravagantly. May we see our time, resources and talents merely as tools to express our love for you. And may we never fall into the trap of being critical of others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.- Levi ThompsonTo check out the discussion or to join in click here.
