How can we show reverence to Jesus in our daily lives today? Setting the Scene “ ‘You did not anoint My head with oil, but she has anointed My feet with perfume.’ ” (Luke 7:46) In one simple sentence, Jesus contrasts two heart postures: Simon’s polite hospitality and the unnamed woman’s extravagant reverence. Her costly perfume, tears, and humble posture turn an ordinary meal into an act of worship. That moment becomes a timeless snapshot of what honoring Jesus can look like in any generation. Recognizing His Worth • Reverence begins with recognizing who He is. Jesus is not merely a respected teacher; He is “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15). • Scripture consistently calls for awe before the Lord: “Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling” (Psalm 2:11). • When we perceive His majesty, expressions of honor flow naturally—just as fragrant oil flowed over His feet. Practical Ways to Show Reverence Daily Honor is never confined to church walls. It can permeate every arena of life. • Prioritize His voice – Begin the day with His Word (Psalm 119:97). – Tune your heart to obey promptly; “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Guard your speech – Speak of Him and to Him with sincere respect (Ephesians 4:29). – Replace casual or irreverent language with words that magnify His name. • Offer continual thanksgiving – “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise” (Hebrews 13:15). – Celebrate His goodness in everyday moments—at meals, during commutes, in conversations. • Display tangible generosity – The woman’s perfume was both costly and personal. Give your resources, time, and talents for His purposes (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Cultivate purity – Present your body “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). – Choose media, relationships, and habits that honor His holiness. • Serve quietly – Small, unseen acts of kindness are fragrant offerings (Matthew 6:3-4). – Whether changing diapers, writing reports, or helping a neighbor, do it “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17). • Honor His gatherings – Treat corporate worship as sacred, arriving prepared and expectant (Hebrews 10:25). – Participate, don’t spectate: sing, pray, listen, repent, and encourage others. Guarding Against Familiarity Simon hosted Jesus yet missed His worth. Familiarity can dull our sense of awe. • Regularly revisit the gospel—Christ’s atoning death and victorious resurrection—to keep wonder alive (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Ask the Spirit to search your heart for complacency (Psalm 139:23-24). • Surround yourself with believers who model earnest devotion, stirring “one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24). Living a Fragrant Life Mary of Bethany later poured perfume on Jesus’ head (Matthew 26:7-13). Each gospel fragrance points to lives wholly yielded to Him. • Let every sphere—work, family, recreation—carry the aroma of Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). • In a skeptical world, reverence is a powerful testimony: actions and attitudes soaked in love for the Savior speak louder than arguments. A life of reverence is simply a life that keeps pouring the best we have at His feet—day after ordinary day—until the whole house is filled with the fragrance of His glory. |
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