Read

Mark 14:3, 6, 9 “While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table... a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume... She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head... ‘Leave her alone,’ said Jesus... ‘Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.’”

Think

It was a quiet dinner. Jesus reclining with friends in Bethany. Then suddenly—interruption. A woman breaks an alabaster jar, pours expensive perfume over Jesus’ head, and fills the room with fragrance and shock.

The disciples are indignant. “What a waste,” they whisper. “This could’ve helped the poor.” But Jesus sees what no one else does. He silences their judgment and defends her devotion. “She did what she could,” he says. “She has anointed my body beforehand for burial.”

She didn’t wait for permission. She didn’t wait for approval. She gave what she had, when she had the chance. And Jesus said her worship would be remembered forever.

It’s easy to overlook moments like this during Holy Week. We focus on the crowds, the cross, the resurrection. But right in the middle of it all is one woman with a broken jar and a poured-out offering. And Jesus made sure we wouldn’t forget her.

Why? Because this moment shows us what true worship looks like: costly, bold, personal. It’s not about being noticed. It’s not about perfect timing or flawless performance. It’s about loving Jesus extravagantly—especially when others don’t understand.

Everyone else at that table saw a disruption. Jesus saw devotion. Everyone else saw waste. Jesus saw worship.

Maybe you’ve been holding back. Waiting for the right moment. Afraid that what you bring isn’t enough. Or maybe you’ve felt the sting of criticism—people misunderstanding your passion or questioning your motives. But here’s the truth: Jesus sees your heart. He receives what others reject. And when you give him your all, even if it feels small or broken, it’s never wasted.

The woman didn’t know she was preparing Jesus for burial. She just loved him. And that love became part of the greatest story ever told.

What’s in your jar? What’s costly to you—your time, your talents, your treasure, your pride? Whatever it is, Jesus is worth it. And when you pour it out in love, it becomes more than an offering—it becomes a legacy.

Apply

Offer something costly today. Maybe it’s time you’ve been guarding, a gift you’ve been hiding, or forgiveness you’ve been withholding. Pour it out before Jesus—not for applause, but out of love.

Pray

Jesus, you are worth everything. Help me stop holding back. Teach me to love you boldly, generously, and without fear of what others think. Let my life be an offering that honors you—one that lingers long after the moment has passed. In Jesus’ name. Amen.