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John 12:4-8

Joh 12:4 But Judas Iscariot – one of his disciples, (who was about to betray him), said,

Joh 12:5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold for three hundred denarii and given to poor people?”

Joh 12:6 But he didn’t say this because he was concerned about the poor people, he said it because he was a thief instead. He carried the money-bag and had access to what was put in it.

Joh 12:7 That was why Jesus said, “Leave her alone; it was for the day of preparation for my burial that she has kept it.

Joh 12:8 Because the poor people you are always having among you, but me you are not always having.”

two opportunities

Mary’s act of anointing Jesus stands as one of the clearest pictures of extravagant devotion in the Gospels. Jesus was not dismissing generosity to the poor—His entire ministry demonstrated deep compassion for those in need. But in this moment, He affirmed something that often gets overlooked: there are times when worship must overflow the boundaries of practicality. There are moments when love for Christ expresses itself in ways that seem excessive to observers but are entirely fitting in the presence of the One who is worthy of all honor.

Life will always present urgent needs. The poor will always be among us, and the call to care for them remains a central expression of Christian obedience. Yet Jesus’ response to Mary shows that the demands of compassion must never eclipse the delight of worship. There are seasons when the church must pause from its necessary labors to adore Christ simply because He is worthy. Extravagant worship is not wasteful; it is a declaration that Christ Himself is the treasure above all treasures.

Judas viewed the moment through the lens of opportunity—an opportunity to manage funds, to appear concerned for the poor, and ultimately to enrich himself. His mind was fixed on the economics of the situation. Mary, however, saw the spiritual significance. She recognized the nearness of Jesus’ death, the weight of the moment, and the privilege of honoring Him while He was still with them. Her act was prophetic, tender, and costly. It revealed a heart that valued Christ above possessions, above appearances, and above the criticism of others.

The contrast is stark. Judas calculated; Mary adored. Judas sought advantage; Mary offered sacrifice. Judas hid greed behind pious language; Mary revealed devotion through costly love. The Gospel leaves no doubt about which example is meant to shape the hearts of believers.

This story invites reflection on the posture of the soul toward Christ. There is a time for service, a time for generosity, and a time for mission. But there must also be a time for unrestrained worship—moments when love for Christ overflows in ways that defy mere practicality. Such moments are not distractions from the Christian life; they are its heartbeat.

A prayer rises naturally from this truth:
Lord, thank You for the gift of extravagant worship. Keep our hearts fixed on Christ, and let devotion to Him shape every act of service and generosity.