John 12, Part 1

Scripture: John 11:55 - 12:11

Observation: It's Passover time. The chief priests are looking for Jesus in the temple, and the people are wondering if He will show up. But Jesus is in Bethany, at the home of Lazarus where a dinner is given for Him (12:1-2). Martha is serving the meal, but Mary is bolder: she gets very expensive perfume, anoints Jesus' feet, and wipes them with her hair. Judas Iscariot protests at the fact that such expensive perfume was not sold instead to provide much needed money for the poor (12:5). John, however, gives real meaning to Judas' words - he was found out to be a thief. As treasurer Judas was in charge of the group's money and he was regularly stealing from them. Jesus did not reprimand Mary. Instead He pointed out that she was preparing Him for the day of His burial (12:7). After all, they would always have the poor among them, but not Jesus (12:8, see also Deuteronomy 15:11). As this is taking place, a crowd has found out where Jesus is, and they come to see Him and Lazarus, who was raised from the dead. This angers the chief priests, who see many turn to Jesus because of Lazarus, so they plot to kill Lazarus as well.

Application: We see a huge difference between Mary and Judas Iscariot. Mary didn't care that she was "wasting" a costly and precious commodity; it had less value to her than her Lord who had done so much for her and her family. Judas, on the other hand, walked with Jesus, saw the miracles, heard the teachings, but loved money and wealth more. What's important here is not what church we attend or how often. It isn't how many Scriptures we've memorized. While these are necessary, what's most important to have a heart for God. Where is my treasure?

Prayer: Father, Mary has taught me a great lesson. She didn't care about customs or protocol. What mattered to her was worship, and she did so openly and freely because she truly loved Jesus. May I continue to develop a spirit like Mary's, one that is brave and not afraid to let everyone know my love for my Savior. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.