Former Blackout Artist

“Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me.”
– Matthew 26: 10-11

Mary’s act of pouring expensive perfume on Jesus was a demonstration of pure devotion. She wasn’t calculating its worth or considering what others might think – she simply gave her best to Jesus. The disciples, particularly Judas, saw it as wasteful. But Jesus saw it as a beautiful thing.

This moment stands in stark contrast to the events immediately surrounding it in the Bible. Just before this, the religious leaders were plotting Jesus’ death. Immediately afterward, Judas agreed to betray Jesus. Mary’s light shines like a beacon of love. She may not have fully understood the significance of what she was doing, but her focus was on honoring Jesus, and that was enough.

Sometimes, the things we do for Christ may seem insignificant to others. Perhaps it’s a quiet act of service, a prayer in secret, or a sacrifice no one else could possibly understand. But Jesus sees the heart behind it. What the world might dismiss as a waste, He calls beautiful.

Are we willing to give Jesus our best, even when others don’t understand? Are we willing to pour out our love for Him without hesitation? May we, like Mary, offer Him the best of what we have – not out of obligation, but out of pure love.

Today’s Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for seeing beauty in what the world often overlooks. Like Mary, I want to give You my best – not out of duty, but out of love. Help me to worship You freely, without worrying about what others think. Teach me to recognize the moments where I can honor You, even in simple ways. Let my heart be so full of devotion that nothing feels too extravagant when given to You. And when I am tempted to hold back, remind me that nothing poured out for You is ever wasted. May my life be a fragrant offering, bringing glory to Your name. Amen.