How does Matthew 26:10 connect with Jesus' teachings on compassion and kindness? The Setting: A Beautiful Deed Recognized Matthew 26:10 — “Aware of this, Jesus asked, ‘Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful deed to Me.’” Compassionate context • A woman pours very costly perfume on Jesus (vv. 6–9). • Disciples criticize her, calling the act “waste.” • Jesus immediately intervenes, protecting her dignity and calling her act “beautiful.” Compassion Expressed in Defense • Jesus does not merely tolerate the woman; He shields her from verbal attack. • His question, “Why are you bothering this woman?” places value on her person before addressing her deed, reflecting His heart for the vulnerable (cf. Matthew 9:36; 12:20). Kindness Affirmed through Appreciation • By naming the act “beautiful,” Jesus frames kindness as an act of worship. • He lifts her up publicly, modeling how believers should honor sacrificial love (John 13:34–35). Parallel Teachings on Compassion • Matthew 5:7 — “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” • Matthew 12:7 — “‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’” • Luke 10:33–34 — The Samaritan “had compassion” and “bandaged his wounds.” • John 8:11 — “Neither do I condemn you,” spoken to the woman caught in adultery, mirroring the protective kindness shown in Matthew 26:10. These passages echo the same pattern: seeing need, protecting dignity, and acting with tangible kindness. Living Out the Lesson Today • Defend the criticized when their service to Christ is sincere. • Celebrate sacrificial generosity instead of scrutinizing it. • Treat acts of kindness as worship that pleases the Lord. • Practice mercy daily, remembering that compassion is central to authentic discipleship (Micah 6:8; Galatians 6:9–10). |
    |