DAILY DEVOTION, July 14, 2021

But Jesus said, “Let her alone; why are you bothering her and causing trouble? She has done a good and beautiful thing to Me  (Mark 14:6 AMP).

Mary wishes to demonstrate her love for Jesus. She anoints his head with a jar of expensive perfume. Some of the disciples are indignant because they see this as wasteful. The perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor. Jesus puts an end to all the fussing and commands the disciples to “leave her alone.” He informs them that if they are really concerned about the poor, poverty will always be around, and there are ways to help them.

He praises Mary for her act of devotion. She wanted to show the depth of her love for Jesus and does so by anointing Him with this expensive perfume. This episode raises a question. How do we demonstrate our love for Jesus? Since He is no longer with us physically, how do we show how much He means to us? Mary’s example might inspire some to give sacrificially to promote His Gospel. And, of course, we offer our love for Him by seeking to live lives that honor Him. “If you love me, keep my commandments,” He said. When we show our “love” for Him in a halfhearted manner, what does that say about the reality of our faith? Mary showed her love for Jesus lavishly. Do we?

Lord Jesus, forgive me when I hold back on demonstrating my love for you. You are worthy of my best. I pray that my giving and my obedience to You will be lavish. May Your name be praised. Amen.