DAY SEVENTEEN | HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
“She broke the jar and poured the perfume on His head.”
Mark 14:3
The story of the anointing of Jesus in Bethany is one of a few stories of Jesus’ life contained in all four of the gospels. This event of devotion permanently impressed the disciples’ hearts. Mark used it to introduce the passion events in high contrast to the hatred and rejection that Jesus received at the hands of the rulers and the people. This act of worship and devotion stood out as an act of love that the Lord deserved from all, but was only given by a few.
May this act be received as a call to worship for us today. May it inspire us to ask, “How much is too much?” That alabaster bottle was very valuable—worth a year’s wages. Traditionally, it would be saved for the most important occasion of one’s life. What is the most extravagant thing you have done for the Lord? What can we learn from this Scripture?
Real love is always extravagant. Extravagant love is often criticized.
Jesus always comes to the defense of those who are criticized for being extravagant in their devotion towards Him.
Prayer Focus:
Pray that the people who call Dunwoody Baptist their church home will find themselves in an attitude of devotion that moves them to extravagant worship, offering their best for the LORD.
A Prayer from Esther Ortiz:
Dear God, thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve You as a member of DBC. As our church is at a crossroads for its future, I ask You for personal guidance in my efforts to support this change. I know You have not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but one of power, love, and self-discipline. Lord, I pray that as each of Your faithful followers at Dunwoody Baptist Church comes forward to support this effort that You would receive all of the honor and glory, Amen.