“Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 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. “But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 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. “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”” NIV
Mary’s act of anointing Jesus’ feet with perfume was an expression of her faith and courage. She took a bold step to demonstrate her devotion despite potential criticism or misunderstanding. This teaches us the value of acting boldly and fearlessly in our faith, regardless of what others may think or say.
Have you ever held back on taking action on your faith out of fear of criticism? Is there something holding you back now?
Pray: Dear Jesus, please teach me to be bold in my faith, and guide me where to take action. And if I should fear what others might say, give me Your words and the confidence to act in love. In Your name, Amen.
