A Lavish Gift

What personal treasures are you willing to lay at the feet of Jesus?

Be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you. 

– 1 Samuel 12:24 NIV

In the quiet town of Bethany, a poignant moment unfolded at the home of Lazarus, where a dinner was prepared to honor Jesus. As the evening progressed, Mary, Lazarus’ sister, stepped forward with a gesture that would always be remembered as her costly sacrifice (See John 12:1-3 ESV).

In an act of unparalleled devotion, Mary took a pound of expensive ointment, pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus, wiping them with her hair. The fragrance filled the room, as did the significance of her sacrificial offering. The ointment, worth a year’s wages, symbolized not only Mary’s love for the Savior but her willingness to surrender something of tremendous value.

The cost of following Jesus can be measured in the surrender of your heart.

Mary’s sacrifice is a challenge to reflect on the true cost of being a Christ follower. It prompts the question, “What personal treasures am I willing to lay at the feet of Jesus?” In a society today that often prioritizes accumulation and self-preservation, Mary’s example calls for a recalibration of priorities – a reminder that the cost of following Jesus is not always measured in monetary terms but in the surrender of your heart, your time and your possessions.

Mary’s costly sacrifice stands as a testament to the transformative power of extravagant devotion. With all worldly distractions and competing priorities, her example serves as a timeless reminder of the eternal value found in surrendering our most precious resources for the sake of love for Christ and His kingdom.

Today’s One Thing

Take time right now to pray: “God, show me what my valuable “perfume” is so that I may pour that out in love for you today. Amen”

Go Deeper 

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