Matthew 26:6-13 #3

Matthew 26:6-13
The story of Mary anointing Jesus is among the most significant events in Jesus’ life on earth. Notice some of the great lessons we can learn.
Sometimes extravagance is appropriate and needed. I’m reminded of a text in Haggai: “Thus says the Lord of hosts: these people say the time has not yet come to build the house of the Lord. Then the word of the Lord came, ‘Is it time for you to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Now therefore, says the Lord of hosts, consider your ways.” (Haggai 1:4-5). I know that we cannot exactly compare a church building today to the temple of old. And it is true that we should be practical and not overspend. But our building does tell the community around us what we think about our service to the Lord. And in many ways our homes are nicer than our building. What we do here is for the Lord, and it should reflect it. Sometimes we need to break a vase!
Most of the time, extravagance is condemned. Look at those words in Mark’s account again: “There were some who said to themselves indignantly…. and they scolded her.” I think there are times where we are just like this. “Let’s not go overboard!” There is almost an unwritten rule among brethren: “Let’s not draw attention to ourselves. Let’s keep everything low-key. Don’t break any traditions. Don’t take any risks. Don’t go beyond the ordinary! After all, we are just a bunch of ignorant fishermen. Excuse me, let us remember, it is the Lord of heaven that we serve!
Extravagance can’t be defended. Did you notice that Mary never spoke through this whole scene? Even when she was severely scolded, she never said a word. But I want you to know that if she could have explained what she just did, it wouldn’t have been extravagant. Extravagant love will be condemned, but it cannot be explained or defended. It is only understood by the giver and by the Lord.
Some opportunities never come again. Mary took advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime moment. We all have moments like that. Sometimes it is with our husband/wife, or with our children, or with our family and friends. And how many times do we hesitate and lose the opportunity to show our love or make a difference? And there are also those once in a lifetime moments with someone who is not saved. And we hesitate, and the moment is gone forever. Mary was bold and we need to have the same boldness.
Extravagant love affects everyone around. Listen to those words, “The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” What Mary did, touched everyone in that room that day. But Jesus went on to say that everywhere the gospel was preached, the story of what she did would be told. That perfume has penetrated the ages and affects all of us. Your act of extravagant love will do the same.