In this passage it becomes apparent that those who would put Jesus to death were the political and religious elite, those in power, along with the money hungry Judas. Amidst the schemes of sinful men, however, is a beautiful act of love to Jesus by a woman.

In a highly patriarchal society, women were rarely given any chance to be of importance as leaders in the community or even mentioned in history books. But Jesus welcomed women and spoke highly of women. Many women followed Jesus and sacrificially provided for him and his disciples. Women were with Jesus when others abandoned him and were the first witnesses of risen Jesus.

Even though Jesus may not have been the perfume wearing type, he welcomed this woman's act of love and accepted it as an anointing for his upcoming death and burial. Jesus sees those who are unseen by society, and upholds their lives, their words, and their actions as worthy of his love and of inclusion in the gospel narrative.


Application: Lord, help me to rid myself of vain conceit that destroys others or greed that takes advantage of others. May I learn and practice the generous giving that flows out of the love you poured out to me.
One Word: Do beautiful things for others.