In what ways can we honor Jesus today, as shown in Mark 14:7? Setting the Scene The fragrant anointing at Bethany shows a woman pouring expensive perfume over Jesus. Some faulted her, but He affirmed her act of love. Key Verse “ ‘For you always have the poor with you, and you can do good to them whenever you want; but you will not always have Me.’ ” (Mark 14:7) Core Truth: Jesus Values Devoted Honor • The woman’s costly sacrifice recognized His worth. • Her timely action grasped a unique, fleeting opportunity. • Jesus linked honoring Him with continuing care for the poor. Practical Ways to Honor Jesus Today • Whole-hearted Worship – Offer sincere praise: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15). – Sing, testify, and celebrate His presence with the same lavish spirit the woman showed. • Costly Obedience – Give Him our best, not leftovers (Proverbs 3:9). – Invest time, talents, and finances for His kingdom without complaint. • Compassionate Care for the Poor – Serve and support the needy locally and globally (Galatians 2:10). – See each act of mercy as ministry to Christ Himself: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me” (Matthew 25:40). • Daily Fellowship – Set aside focused moments in Scripture and prayer (Luke 10:39). – Let personal devotion be as fragrant as the perfume poured out. • Bold Public Witness – Speak openly of His saving work (Acts 1:8). – Live so that “in word or deed” everything points to Him (Colossians 3:17). • Swift, Timely Responses – Act while opportunities remain, remembering life’s brevity (James 4:14). – Honor Him now, not “someday,” just as the woman seized her moment. Living This Out With the Poor Always Among Us • Balance worship and works of mercy—both matter to Jesus. • Regular giving, mentoring, job training, and hospitality become modern equivalents of pouring perfume. • Consistent care reveals that our love for Christ is genuine (1 John 3:17-18). Encouragement to Act Now • The woman’s story proves that honoring Jesus is never wasted. • What is offered in faith today is remembered eternally: “Wherever the gospel is preached… what she has done will also be told” (Mark 14:9). |
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