Week 6: Prophecy Fulfilled
Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9, Luke 7:36-50, John 12:1-8
Cost is associated with care, and when things are perceived to be mishandled, the action might be seen as disrespectful. But what if the thought behind the action is pure and honorable?
The Gospels account for two anointings during Jesus’s earthly ministry. Once, at the beginning, and again at the end. In the first account, the woman was more hospitable and reverent toward Jesus than Simon the Pharisee. Though she had less, she gave everything she had. She also had saving faith: “Your faith has saved you; go in peace” (Luke 7:50). She gave because of her faith; she knew the majesty of Jesus and used her resources to acknowledge Him.
The next anointing took place in the week leading up to Jesus’ death. This woman anointed Jesus with the “alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly” (Mark 14:3). ”
What do you notice about Jesus’ character as He responds to these anointings?
He disagrees with the disciples who scolded her for anointing Him rather than selling the item to give to the poor or using it for positive gain, as Judas would have done. Jesus points to the heart and servitude in her action: “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me” (Mark 14:6).
Both the woman in Luke 7 and Mary in John 12, displayed their love and honor for Jesus as the Passover Lamb. Jesus, who is without blemish, the fulfillment of this long-held ceremony, the perfect sacrifice. The anointing served as a sign that pointed to Jesus’ upcoming burial and resurrection (Matt. 26:12). The timing of this was crucial. The disciples did not understand this perspective, but Mary did. Jesus appreciates the gesture, highlighting the importance of pure-hearted devotion.
Both women’s actions show a deeper understanding of who Jesus was and what He came to do. At the beginning, to display the life God has called us to live, but we could not. And at the end, to anoint the very sacrifice that would atone for our sins.
He is worthy of our dedication. He is worthy of our worship. He is the God who laid His life down, knowing the consequences of our sins (Rom. 5:8), and joyfully took it upon Himself to be our substitute (Phil. 2:8). Let us look to these women as great examples for the posture we ought to have before our Lord, acknowledging that He is set apart.
Do our actions point to a true understanding of who Christ is? Do we live, serve, and worship as though Jesus is, truly, precious to us?
