The Anointing

Have you ever received something so valuable that you hesitated to use it? Perhaps it was an expensive wine, a hand-sewn quilt, or the heirloom china reserved only for special occasions. We tend to hold these things back, afraid of losing or diminishing their worth. But sometimes, the most meaningful thing we can do with a treasured gift is to use it, even if it means it’s “spent” in the process.

In Mark 14:1–9, a woman pours out an incredibly expensive jar of ointment on Jesus’ head. Her actions upset the disciples, who saw its value as useful for the poor. But Jesus commended her, saying:

"She has done a beautiful thing to me... She has anointed my body beforehand for burial." (Mark 14:6, 8)

This passage encourages us to think about the things we value most in our lives. As we prepare for Sunday, ask yourself: What does my life say about how I value the gift of Christ?