This is for the most important King

Mary goes to the market and buys a very specific oil: pure nard. John makes sure the reader understands its value: Three hundred denarii, roughly a year’s wages. This is not a small or impulsive purchase. Mary knows exactly what she is buying and what it will cost.

She brings it to Jesus, anoints His feet, and wipes them with her hair. It is a quiet, humble act of love.

Then the reaction comes: Some see waste. Others see poor judgment. The money could have been used differently. The poor could have benefited more. From the outside, the act looks excessive and unnecessary.

Jesus responds clearly: Leave her alone.

Jesus sees her heart — a heart full of love. What looks like waste to people looks like love to Jesus. What looks like foolish spending to others, Jesus receives with joy.

This moment reveals something important. People tend to evaluate actions by usefulness and efficiency. Jesus looks at devotion. He sees what motivates the gift, not just what the gift is.

Mary’s love cost her something. She does not give what is left over or convenient. She wanted to give her Lord the very best. That is not a command, but it is an invitation. It invites reflection about what love for Jesus looks like in real life.

Jesus is not looking to judge effort or measure sacrifice. He is inviting deeper trust and deeper love. Mary’s act is remembered because it came from a sincere heart, freely offered.

Reflection Questions

• What can you give to Jesus today?
• What might it cost you?
• How far are you willing to go?
• What can you learn from Mary’s example?

Prayer

Lord, what Mary did is an example of deep love. Lord, I love You too. You are precious to me. Your presence is enough, and I know You need nothing from me — You already have everything. Today, I give You my heart again, as something precious. I dedicate myself to You. Amen.

Next Steps

This Reading Plan was created by Alongsiders Europe, a discipleship movement, in partnership with OneHope and Jesus.net.

Each reading plan includes a Group Discusion Guide to help you explore the themes and lessons from the series together with others.

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