Jesus spent much of his time addressing the religious spirit of the Pharisees and Scribes and even His disciples, warning them of the danger of embracing religious acts without embracing the person of Christ. One such example is found in Matthew 26:6-13 with the woman who poured an alabaster flask of costly oil on Jesus’ head. This act of worship reflected so much of this woman’s heart for her Savior and the sacrifice she was willing to make to honor Jesus. She poured out a year’s worth of money upon Jesus and was willing to give everything to be in the presence of the Lord. The reaction of the disciples is a perfect example of how many in the church today would respond to a person who would spend everything just to be with the Lord. The disciples questioned the worthiness of this act of worship and were indignant that such “waste” occurred. They valued good deeds over our highest calling of being worshippers of God. Jesus on the other hand valued this woman’s act of worship toward Him and exalted her to a place of influence. When we seek God first and value our relationship with Him above all else, God in turn exalts us to realms of influence.
I'm glad you reminded me of this timeless tale today! It's pretty crazy to think that someone would do something like that, and pretty hard to think I wouldn't just think of it as "waste" either. What do you think we can do to pour alabaster jars at his feet today?
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to believe someone would do that today but I feel in my spirit that today in America there is a remnant that is willing to make this sacrifice and be ostracised by the religious community for their act of worship. I pray to God that I would "waste" a year of my money, time, and life to be in the presence of God...it can and it will happen. We can pour an alabaster jar when we are completely free and empowered in His presence. When we follow the unction of the Lord wherever He may lead (if it's across the country or to a remote village in Africa)...Are we willing to be a fearless lover of the Lord even if it means leaving our loved ones, our comforts and nice little environments, entering the darkest corners of the world, or just being forsaken by everyone around us. Let's pray we can "waste" our lives for the living God.
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