In what ways can we balance worship and service as seen in Matthew 26:11? Setting the Scene Matthew 26:6-13 records Mary of Bethany pouring costly perfume on Jesus. When the disciples object that the perfume could have been sold and given to the poor, Jesus answers, “For you will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have Me” (Matthew 26:11). What Jesus Addresses • Worship is never wasteful when it is directed to Him. • Care for the poor remains a standing command (cf. Deuteronomy 15:11), yet it must not eclipse wholehearted devotion. • The immediate presence of Jesus warranted an immediate act of honor; His impending crucifixion gave the moment unique urgency. Principles for Balancing Worship and Service • Prioritize the Person, then the Program – Loving Christ first (Matthew 22:37) fuels love for neighbor (Matthew 22:39). • Let Worship Overflow into Service – Genuine adoration produces generous action (James 2:14-17). • Recognize Seasons and Moments – Some occasions demand focused worship (Mary’s anointing). Other times call for active ministry (Acts 6:1-4). • Hold Both with Open Hands – “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise… And do not neglect to do good and to share with others” (Hebrews 13:15-16). Practical Ways to Live It Out • Daily Devotion – Set apart time each day for Scripture, prayer, and worship before engaging in tasks. • Weekly Rhythms – Gather with believers for corporate praise (Hebrews 10:25). – Schedule regular service: volunteering, visiting shut-ins, supporting missions. • Financial Stewardship – Budget firstfruits for the Lord (Proverbs 3:9). – Allocate generous giving for the needy (2 Corinthians 9:8-9). • Serving as Worship – View acts of mercy as offerings to Christ (Matthew 25:40). • Team Balance – Like Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42), combine worshipful listening with diligent hospitality—individually and within church ministries. Heart Checks to Maintain Balance • Ask: Is my service flowing from love for Jesus or from duty alone? • Ask: Am I neglecting tangible compassion while pursuing personal devotion? • Watch for self-promotion in either arena; seek humble obedience (Micah 6:8). Encouraging Promises • “Those who honor Me I will honor” (1 Samuel 2:30). • “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done” (Proverbs 19:17). • Christ notes and cherishes every act of devotion (Mark 14:6-9). Holding both worship and service together reflects the fullness of love Jesus calls His disciples to live. |
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