August 10
Mark 14:3-9
We all express our love in different ways. So, if worship is showing our love for God, it would be fair to say that we all worship in different ways. Are you picturing her yet? You know who I'm talking about, there's one at every church. That crazy lady with her arms up in the air, tears streaming down her face, a hearty 'amen' or 'hallelujah' after every song. There's nothing wrong with that kind of exuberance (as long as it's really out of worship), but sometimes the really outgoing worshipers can attract negative attention. Just like the woman in today's story. She did something out of love and worship for Jesus, but the others thought she was being fooling and wasteful. Jesus, however, knew her heart and was touched by her gesture. Which is more important, impressing people or impressing Jesus? Well, that's a 'duh' answer, but it's sometimes easier said than done. We should take a lesson from this woman who didn't care what people thought. Not only did she do the right thing, she was greatly rewarded. Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her" (vs. 9) And it was! This story can be found in each of the four gospels! (Matt. 26:6-13, Luke 7:37-38, John 12:1-8, and of course Mark 14:3-9)
Principle: No expression of love for Christ is too extravagant.
Application:
1. How am I critical of the ways others express their love to Christ when it is different from my ways?
2. What expression of my love for Jesus will I joyfully, perhaps sacrificially, present to Him today?
3. Do I use this woman's example of giving to the Lord as a standard for myself and a lesson for others?
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"It could have been sold for more than a year's wages..." (Mark 14:5) that's a lavish gift. She sees Jesus, her heart is moved and she can't help but want to give Jesus her best. Figure up what you make in a year and ask yourself if you would be willing to give it to the Lord. The average Christian in America gives 2% of their income to church and charity. We have a lot to learn from this woman who loved Jesus more than the things money could buy.
ReplyDeleteSarah - I think the effort you have put in to this Bible study the last 78 days has been an expression of love. I am not always inspired to post a comment but I am always challenged to take a harder look at my relationship with Jesus. Some people might question why you would spend the time when there are so many other things you could be doing. But I understand why the woman would pour her perfume on Jesus and I understand why you would take the time to prepare these lessons -- in fact I understand better BECAUSE of these lessons. Thank you Sarah.
ReplyDeleteSarah, I know that lady you were speaking about! Soon after we were saved we were in a large church in Fl. and there she was, front row and in the center! Actually she kind of scared me, but now I can see her heart. I can only imagine Jesus saying "come on you deadbeats. Show a little enthusiasm for me." Question #1..Yes, I was critical of her, shame on me. Thank you Lord for forgiveness and I want to be enthusiastic for you.
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