Reckless Love

Read

Mark 14:3-6 “While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head. Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, ‘Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.’ And they rebuked her harshly. ‘Leave her alone,’ said Jesus. ‘Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me.’”

Mark 14:8a “She did what she could.”

Think

Imagine stepping into the middle of Holy Week, a time of intense emotion and preparation leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. In the crowd and commotion, Jesus deliberately avoids grand public appearances and prestigious gatherings. Instead, he chooses an unexpected setting—a humble dinner at the home of Simon the Leper.

Simon isn't a wealthy or influential figure; he's known in Scripture for his illness. But it's here, on what is called "Spy Wednesday," that Jesus shares a meal with his disciples, because of Judas Iscariot, the one who would ultimately betray him for thirty pieces of silver. Yet, while betrayal looms, something beautiful was released.

Enter Mary of Bethany, a woman whose love for Jesus transcends boundaries. She approaches Jesus with an alabaster box of costly perfume, the most precious possession she owned. She broke it open to anoint his feet. Mary's gesture speaks volumes; she understands the impending crucifixion and expresses her gratitude for Jesus' miraculous works, including the raising of her brother Lazarus.

In this moment, Mary's actions defy societal norms and expectations. She pours out her love and devotion unabashedly, without regard for appearances or the opinions of others. The disciples, taken aback by what they perceive as wastefulness, question her actions. But Jesus, ever perceptive, recognizes Mary's act as profound praise.

"She has done what she could," Jesus declares. And therein lies the challenge for us—to embrace every opportunity to serve and love Jesus wholeheartedly, just as Mary did. Have we poured out our love for him with the same fervor and dedication? Have we done all we can to express our gratitude and devotion to the one who gave everything for us?

As we journey through Holy Week, we can be inspired by Mary's example of reckless love and unwavering devotion. Let's seize every moment to show Jesus our love; he is worthy of our highest praise and deepest affection.

Apply

Consider ways you can be generous with your resources, just as Mary generously poured out her expensive perfume. If you attend a local Church, are you volunteering this Sunday?

Pray

God, thank you for loving me so much that you gave your son to die for me while I was a sinner. Teach me to express my devotion to you, not only in words but also in actions. In Jesus’ name. Amen.