“Often pagans, with their eyes wide open, do not see very clearly.” ~ George Rouault
When was the last time you found yourself spilling something? Have you ever spilled something of value, like an expensive glass of liquor, a $13.00 ballpark beer, or a fresh latte from Starbucks? When we witness somebody spilling something, we can quickly judge and spurt out criticisms like “watch out clumsy” or “pay attention to what you are doing, knucklehead!” In our scripture reading today in Mark’s Gospel, Mary is chastised by Judas Iscariot for pouring expensive perfume on the head and feet of Jesus and wiping His feet with her hair; let’s pick up the story here:
Mark 14:3-9 (CEB)
3 Jesus was at Bethany visiting the house of Simon, who had a skin disease. During dinner, a woman came in with a vase made of alabaster and containing very expensive perfume of pure nard. She broke open the vase and poured the perfume on his head. 4 Some grew angry. They said to each other, “Why waste the perfume? 5 This perfume could have been sold for almost a year’s pay[a] and the money given to the poor.” And they scolded her.
6 Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you make trouble for her? She has done a good thing for me. 7 You always have the poor with you; and whenever you want, you can do something good for them. But you won’t always have me. 8 She has done what she could. She has anointed my body ahead of time for burial. 9 I tell you the truth that, wherever in the whole world the good news is announced, what she’s done will also be told in memory of her.”
Footnotes
- Mark 14:5 Or three hundred denaria; a denarion was equivalent to a day’s pay.
In the world when unbelievers witness believers pouring out their time, talent, and treasure for the kingdom of God, they are quick to judge and make sarcastic remarks like “when are they ever going to stop believing in fairytales” or “why are they wasting their time and money worshipping God, when God doesn’t exist, or if there is God, He long gave up on the world.” Our unbelieving friends and family don’t realize that the spillage of our lives amongst the world transforms lives and helps usher in God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. God spilled the blood of Jesus at the cross on Calvary. Now the whole world has the chance to be saved, including those who still doubt and don’t believe. Hopefully, one day, through your living example, they will say “yes” to Jesus, join us in the kingdom, and quit crying over spilled grace.
Scripture Readings
Reflection Questions
- What did you take away from the reflection and scripture readings?
- What are your greatest spills?
- Who are your biggest critics?
- What are the biggest challenges your face living the kingdom life?
- What are your thoughts on Mary?
- What is the most expensive cologne or perfume you have ever purchased or received? Do you feel that money could have been spent on the poor?
Prayer
Lord, You spilled out your blood for the salvation of the world. You never knew sin, but yet you felt its pain. Thank You for saving us by way of the cross and resurrection. My hope is both Mary and Judas are with You in paradise. In Your Spirit and Name, I pray these things. May I do Your will, not mine, always, now and forever, Amen.
Leave a Reply