What can we learn from Mary's actions to apply in our worship today? Mary’s Moment: A Snapshot of Worship “Mary, whose brother Lazarus was sick, was the same one who anointed the Lord with perfume and wiped His feet with her hair.” (John 11:2) This brief parenthetical note anchors a historical, literal event. It points us to an act so memorable that whenever Mary’s name appears, her worship quickly follows. A Literal Event with Deep Roots • The Gospel writers treat Mary’s anointing as a factual occurrence (John 12:3; Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9). • Scripture consistently places her at Jesus’ feet—listening (Luke 10:39), weeping (John 11:32), and worshiping (John 12:3). • Each scene underscores the same heart posture: humble devotion. Five Lessons for Today’s Worshipers 1. Whole-hearted Devotion • Mary poured out “pure nard,” worth a laborer’s annual wage (John 12:3). • She held nothing back; worship still calls for entire selves offered to God (Romans 12:1). 2. Humility Before Christ • Kneeling at His feet and using her own hair, Mary lowered herself (John 12:3). • Genuine worship bows low, exalting Jesus alone (Psalm 95:6). 3. Timely Obedience • Jesus said her act prepared Him “in view of My burial” (Mark 14:8). • Worship that responds promptly to the Spirit honors God’s redemptive timetable (Ephesians 5:16). 4. Fragrant Witness • “The house was filled with the fragrance” (John 12:3). • Our praise still carries influence, spreading “the aroma of Christ” (2 Corinthians 2:15). 5. Costly Yet Commended • Some criticized her extravagance (John 12:4-5), yet Jesus defended her (Mark 14:6-9). • Sincere, Scripture-aligned worship pleases Christ even when misunderstood (Galatians 1:10). Putting It into Practice • Offer worship that costs something—time, resources, focused attention. • Adopt a posture—physical or internal—that reminds you Christ is Lord and you are His servant. • Act promptly on Spirit-led opportunities to honor Jesus, trusting His timing. • Cultivate an atmosphere where praise “fills the house,” influencing family, church, and community. • Stand firm when godly worship meets criticism, knowing Christ’s commendation outweighs human opinion. |
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