Day 5
Reading: Mark 14:1–21
SOAP: Mark 14:8–9
“She did what she could. She anointed my body beforehand for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.”
We know from other gospel accounts that the woman who anointed Jesus was Mary of Bethany, the sister of Lazarus and Martha. This is the same Mary who sat at Jesus’ feet, eager to hear His every word (Lk 10:38-42).
Mary had seen Jesus do mighty works in her life. He treated her with dignity, giving her the opportunity to learn from Him, something women were frequently denied in the first century. Mary knew Jesus was the resurrection and the life; she had seen Jesus raise her brother from the dead (Jn 11:43-44).
Mary knew who Jesus was. She knew what He was worth. She had seen Him redeem her life and provide for her in inexplicable ways. Her faith was in Jesus. She put her faith, her life, her heart, everything she had, at Jesus’ feet. Her devotion blessed Jesus. It was not a waste. It was a beautiful honor.
He has done the same for us. He has redeemed our hearts, our lives, and our circumstances. He has provided for our past, our present, and our future. May we love Jesus and honor Him the same way Mary did: with all we have.
Lord, give me a devotion like Mary’s. I have seen You do marvelous works in my life. Teach me how to worship, serve, and honor You with all I have. In Your name, amen.