The Week That Changed the World Devotional March 5
by David Joynt on March 05, 2024
Stress Test Devotional April 28
April 28, 2024
MARK 14:6-7 | 6 But Jesus said, Let her alone; why do you trouble her? She has performed a good service for me. 7 For you always have the poor with you, and you can show kindness to them whenever you wish, but you will not always have me.
The vulnerable woman anointing Jesus at Simon’s home in Bethany is scorned and scolded by other disciples as a foolish steward who has chosen an overly extravagant way to spend a years salary. Instead of one moment of devotion it could have helped dozens for months with necessities.
But this criticism, though understandable, misses the mark, Jesus insists, and He rebukes their criticism of her. These are her resources, after all, and they are being used to honor someone who has clearly changed the trajectory of her life. Love is, by its very nature, sometimes extravagant. It moves beyond pragmatism and calculation toward sacrifice.
When was the last time you loved extravagantly?
Gracious God,
Guide me when I spend time, energy, and resources. Help me be wisely pragmatic and open to the moments when love asks for more.
Amen.
