March 16, 2026 | Be Connected
A Woman Anoints Jesus
Scripture: John 12:1-11(NIV)
1 Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 3 Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
4 But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.
7 “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. 8 You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”
9 Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, 11 for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him.
Devotional
In this passage, we learn of a profound moment of devotion, controversy, and faith. Mary’s act of anointing Jesus with expensive perfume demonstrates her deep love and recognition of who Jesus is. Her act was sacrificial, costly, and filled with love. It was a moment of pure worship, preparing Jesus for His upcoming death and burial.
Judas’ reaction reveals a common human tendency: so many times, we focus on material value and practical concerns rather than spiritual devotion. Jesus gently rebukes Judas, stating that Mary’s act was an appropriate gesture of love and foreshadowed His burial.
This passage highlights how Jesus’ presence and sacrifice can inspire faith in all of us. The large crowd’s desire to see Jesus and Lazarus shows that Jesus’ miracles and acts of love draw people toward faith, even prompting disapproval from those threatened by His power.
Jesus’ sacrifice is a reminder that he is worth every sacrifice. Our acts of love and worship prepare the way for others to come to faith.
When we reflect on this passage, are we as followers willing to give our best to Jesus, even if it seems costly or impractical in the moment? Like Mary, are we called to offer our love and commitment wholeheartedly?
