How does Mark 14:8 demonstrate sacrificial giving in our daily lives? Setting the Scene • Mark 14:3-9 recounts a woman breaking an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume and pouring it on Jesus’ head. • Critics call it wasteful; Jesus declares it beautiful. • Mark 14:8: “She has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint My body for burial.” What Sacrificial Giving Involves • Wholehearted devotion: “She has done what she could”—nothing held back (cf. 2 Corinthians 8:3). • Costly surrender: The perfume was worth a year’s wages, underscoring true sacrifice (cf. 1 Chronicles 21:24). • Timely obedience: She gave while she had the opportunity; after the crucifixion, access to Jesus’ body was limited (cf. Galatians 6:10). • Christ-centered focus: The gift honored Jesus personally, not a cause or reputation (cf. Colossians 3:23-24). Principles for Our Daily Lives • Give the best, not the leftovers. • Measure generosity by faithfulness, not by others’ opinions or the size of the gift. • Seize present moments; tomorrow’s chances may never come. • Remember that Jesus notices and values every act done for Him (cf. Matthew 10:42). Practical Expressions Today – Budget first for the Lord before discretionary spending. – Offer time and skills where they serve gospel purposes, even when inconvenient. – Open your home, table, and calendar to those in need. – Support missionaries and local ministries beyond a token amount. – Forgo personal luxuries to meet another believer’s pressing need (cf. Acts 4:34-35). Encouragement to Give Lavishly • Jesus called the woman’s act a “beautiful thing” (Mark 14:6). He says the same of every believer who pours out what seems extravagant, yet accords Him supreme worth. |
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