Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it. Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.” — John 12:3-8

Mary did something extravagant. She took a significant quantity of perfume worth great value (almost a year's wages) and "cashed it all in" on Jesus. The fragrance took over the room. And this act of generosity would be the anointing that Jesus would carry with him to the Cross. But still, no one understood that the Cross was coming at this point—except Jesus.

It is likely that even the author, John, did not fully comprehend the significance of this event at the time. However, with hindsight, he wrote about three important aspects: Mary's divine action, Judas' deceitful heart, and Jesus' sacrificial preparation.

So what does this teach us?

In times of confusion, it is important to maintain faithful and obedient. Although we may not understand certain things in the present confusion, if we remain faithful and obedient, confusion will lift, and clarity will come in time. By persevering through confusion, we will align ourselves with the faithful rather than the unfaithful.

Therefore, if you are currently feeling confused—whether it's about your marriage, finances, future, children, desires, compulsions, or sin—continue to be faithful and obedient. Stay on the path of faithfulness until the confusion lifts and God provides clarity. By doing so, you will be counted among the faithful.

ASK THIS:

1. How does the act of Mary anointing Jesus' feet with expensive perfume challenge your understanding of extravagant generosity? In what ways can you apply this concept of extravagant giving in your own life?
2. Reflect on a time when you faced confusion or uncertainty in your life. How did you respond during that period? Did you maintain faith and obedience, or did you struggle in your faith? How can the example of Mary's obedience and Jesus' sacrificial preparation inspire you to persevere through confusion and trust in God's plan for your life?

DO THIS: Be obedient and faithful.

PRAY THIS: God, in times of confusion, give me the faith to remain obedient and the patience to wait for clarity, trusting in Your perfect plan for my life. Guide me to live a life of extravagant generosity, following the example of Mary, and help me stay faithful to Your call. Amen.

PLAY THIS: Alabaster Box.