First, the plot to arrest Jesus (1,2). Jesus time was near. Two days before the Passover, the religious leaders plotted how they might arrest Jesus and be rid of him. But they were afraid of the people. They were double minded. They wanted to be rid of Jesus, but they also were afraid of the people. So, they would not arrest him during the Feast. Second, a beautiful thing (3-9). Jesus was in Bethany, just outside Jerusalem. While reclining at the table, a woman came and poured expensive perfume on Jesus' head. The woman was rebuked. The perfume could have been sold and used to help the poor. But Jesus saw differently. He saw this as a beautiful thing. This woman loved Jesus dearly. Her expensive perfume meant nothing to her, next to Jesus. She wanted to do something for Jesus. So she anointed Jesus body with her most treasured possession.
Application: Lord, we want to do something for Jesus. Help us to give our most treasured possession, our hearts, to Jesus.
One Word: Do a beautiful thing for Jesus