While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of costly perfume made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head. Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year's wages and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly. "Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing for me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her."
(Mark 14:3-9)
Worshipping God Through Giving
During a personal study about giving, I was recently arrested by a story found in several gospels about a woman who poured out a vial of perfume worth a "workman's year of wages" on the feet of Jesus.
I was rattled by being caught off guard by what I finally understood.
When those who viewed the woman's actions were astonished at the waste and said that the money could have been used to help the poor, Jesus responded that whenever the gospel is preached all over the world, what this woman had done would be told.
She would be remembered, and we would always have an opportunity to help the poor.
All of her giving was worship.
I was awakened to the fact that my stewardship is a response of my heart and an opportunity to worship God with the grace He has given.
Whether we pay for the "perfume" from the finances God provides, "apply it" with the talent He gives us, or use the time God entrusts us, we are worshipping Him.
Regardless of what others may say or think about us, we are called to worship in spirit and truth in the unique way He has made each of us.
Follow His lead when you give.
In what ways have you seen giving money as less important than giving your time and talent?
How might your perception of giving for His kingdom change to worship instead of obligation?
Lord, open our eyes to see the fullness of our relationship with You. Awaken us to the beauty of worshipping You through our giving. Amen