That Day in Bethany (Part 1) An Alabaster Jar
While He (Jesus) was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head. Mark 14:3
I wonder if anyone noticed her at first? Did Andrew or Peter see her, but dismiss her because they were so engrossed in the conversation with their Master? Did James make eye contact with her as she approached Jesus? Did the room suddenly grow quiet, or could whispers be heard as attention turned to her? Did anyone wonder what was in the jar she was carrying?
As Mother’s Day approaches this Sunday, I know that a special corner in my living room will begin filling with wrapped packages. It’s not that this corner is so special. It’s just where we place gifts as birthdays and special occasions approach. It gives the one we are celebrating something to look forward to. I’ll be passing by those wrapped packages this week wondering what’s in them. What gift was crafted by one of my girls? Did Izzy take some existing jewelry out of my jewelry box and wrap it? Did Matthew really remember Mother’s Day is this weekend?
It’s the packages that intrigue me because they are hiding something special inside—something that will mean the world to me because it came from the most important people in my life. However, by Sunday afternoon those pretty papers, bows and bags won’t even matter. They will be put in the trash because the true gift will have been revealed.
The alabaster jar was not the focus that day in Bethany, and in my opinion, neither was the perfume. It was the woman, and the act of love she poured out on Jesus. She gave something to Jesus that meant more than the package it came in—more than the gift itself. She was chosen by God to deliver a prophetic message through a selfless act of love—a beautiful gift that would long be remembered.
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. 14:8-9
