How can we balance caring for the poor and worshiping Jesus in daily life? Setting the Scene • Mark 14 records Jesus reclining at the table in Bethany when a woman pours expensive perfume on His head. • Some present complain that the perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor. • Jesus defends her act of devotion. Key Verse Mark 14:7: “For you will always have the poor with you, and you can do good for them whenever you want, but you will not always have Me.” What Jesus Is Not Saying • He is not dismissing care for the poor; He quotes Deuteronomy 15:11, where God commands ongoing generosity. • He is highlighting the unique, time-sensitive opportunity to honor Him in person before His crucifixion. • He emphasizes that worship must remain central, even while generosity continues. Scripture’s Twofold Call 1. Whole-hearted worship – John 4:24: “God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.” – Colossians 3:17: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.” 2. Constant compassion – Deuteronomy 15:11: “There will never cease to be poor in the land; therefore I command you to open your hand.” – James 1:27: “Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress.” – Matthew 25:40: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.” Practical Ways to Hold Both Together Daily Habits • Begin each day with focused worship—Scripture reading, thanksgiving, songs. • Ask the Spirit to reveal one tangible act of kindness for someone in need. • Treat every task, paid or unpaid, as service rendered to Jesus (Colossians 3:23). Weekly Rhythms • Gather with believers for corporate praise, keeping Christ at the center. • Set aside a fixed portion of income for benevolence before other spending. • Look for local service opportunities: food banks, visitation of shut-ins, mentoring. Lifestyle Mind-set • See worship and mercy not as competing claims but as complementary expressions of love for Christ. • Practice open-handed stewardship: possessions held loosely, ready for kingdom use. • Cultivate hospitality—inviting those who cannot repay (Luke 14:12-14). • Remember that serving the poor is, in effect, serving Jesus Himself (Matthew 25:40). Why Balance Matters • Worship without compassion can become hollow ritual (Isaiah 58:3-10). • Compassion without worship can drift into mere social philanthropy devoid of eternal perspective. • A balanced life magnifies Christ: hearts set on Him, hands extended to others. Closing Encouragement Jesus’ words in Mark 14:7 free believers to pour out extravagant devotion while engaging in steady, generous care for the needy. Each day offers opportunity to adore Him first and reflect His love through practical service, keeping both in joyful alignment. |
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