Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. John 12:1-2 (NIV)
When Jesus came to Simon’s house, He was given a cool reception, but when He came to Martha and Mary’s it was entirely different: There is a great spirit of celebration as Jesus’ friends gather to honor Him.
Mary can’t believe that her brother is there. Just a few days before, she had led the procession at his funeral, but now here he is sitting at the table, laughing and enjoying the meal, and it is all because of Jesus. Mary longs to find some way to express her gratitude. Imagine what’s going on in her soul:
Heart calls the meeting. “This is a special occasion, and I feel we have to do something.”
“I agree,” says Mind. “What do you all think we should do?”
“I have a pint of perfume that I’ve had my eyes on,” says Heart. “Let’s pour some over Jesus.”
“Can’t think of any better way to use it,” says Conscience.
“I’ll never record anything greater than what he’s done for us,” says Memory.
“Then why pour out some?” says Imagination. “What are we saving the rest for?”
“Let’s pour out the whole lot!” says Will.
“Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair” (John 12:3).
Two people prepared a dinner for Jesus: One suffered from a diminished sense of need; the other was motivated by an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
On a scale of 1 (diminished need) to 10 (overwhelming gratitude), where are you?
