What is the meaning of Mark 14:8? She has done • In Mark 14:8 Jesus takes notice of the woman’s action, saying, “She has done…”—drawing attention to an accomplished deed rather than a mere intention. • Her anointing flows out of love, not obligation, echoing James 2:18 where faith is proven by works. • Like the servant in Matthew 25:21, she acts faithfully with what is entrusted to her, illustrating that God values obedience expressed in tangible ways. what she could • The phrase highlights limitation and sacrifice: she gave the full contents of an alabaster jar (Mark 14:3), mirroring the widow who “put in all she had to live on” (Mark 12:44). • 2 Corinthians 8:12 affirms that “the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.” The Lord commends willingness over magnitude. • Her act reminds believers that God calls each person to offer whatever resources, time, or abilities they possess—Romans 12:1 encourages presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice. to anoint My body • Anointing was a practice of honor (Psalm 23:5) and consecration (Exodus 29:7). Here it foreshadows Jesus’ burial preparation, linking honor with impending sorrow. • By anointing Him openly, she declares Jesus’ worth above the expensive perfume, aligning with Philippians 3:8 where Paul counts all things loss “because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ.” • Her act contrasts those plotting Jesus’ death (Mark 14:1–2); while enemies seek to seize Him, she seeks to serve Him. in advance of My burial • Jesus had repeatedly foretold His death (Mark 8:31; 9:31; 10:33–34), yet most disciples failed to grasp it. This woman alone acts as though His words are certain. • Her timing is Spirit-led: after the crucifixion, women finding the tomb sealed could not anoint Him (Mark 16:1). God ensured the anointing happened beforehand. • The phrase underscores Christ’s sovereignty—He knows the exact hour (John 13:1) and interprets her deed as part of God’s redemptive plan (Acts 2:23). summary The woman’s loving deed in Mark 14:8 models wholehearted devotion: she acted, gave all she had, honored Christ publicly, and believed His word about the cross. Jesus’ commendation assures believers that sincere, sacrificial service offered in faith—no matter the size—finds eternal significance in God’s plan. |
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