Bible in a Year:
Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, Why this waste of perfume?
A number of years ago, my wife and I visited a small church where during the worship service a woman began to dance in the aisle. She was soon joined by others. Carolyn and I looked at each other and an unspoken agreement passed between us: Not me! We come from church traditions that favor a serious liturgy, and this other form of worship was well beyond our comfort zone.
But if Marks story of Marys waste means anything at all, it suggests that our love for Jesus may express itself in ways that others find uncomfortable (Mark 14:19). A years wages were involved in Marys anointing. It was an unwise act that invited the disciples scorn. The word Mark uses to describe their reaction means to snort and suggests disdain and mockery. Mary may have cringed, fearing Jesus response. But He commended her for her act of devotion and defended her against His own disciples, for Jesus saw the love that prompted her action despite what some would consider the impractical nature of it. He said, Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me (v. 6).
Different forms of worshipinformal, formal, quiet, exuberantrepresent a sincere outpouring of love for Jesus. Hes worthy of all worship that comes from a heart of love.
Why do you think were critical of unfamiliar forms of worship? How can we change our thoughts about a form of worship thats outside our comfort zone?
I bow before You, Almighty God, and worship You now. Youre worthy of the highest praise and adoration.
Good morning, Mayor, and thank you for today’s sustenance for body and soul.
Hope you are having a productive week.