From the Edges – Morning Devotional Commitment and Sacrifice.

From the Edges – Morning Devotion

Pastor Calvin Cook

LENT – Day 31 Commitment and Sacrifice

Scripture focus – John 12:1-3 Six days before the Passover, Jesus therefore came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So, they gave a dinner for him there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with him at table. Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. ‘

We get the warm fuzzy feeling in reading the opening verses of John 12 -. Jesus has returned to Bethany to the home of Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha. Scripture leads us to believe that these three were some of Jesus’s best friends and supporters. Remember the early reflection to their life. Lazarus had died and Mary and Martha were believing that if Jesus would have been there this death would not have happened. In true Jesus fashion he did what God does, Jesus brought life back to Lazarus. Fast track to John 12, Jesus is now hanging out with Lazarus, being comforted by their friendship and hospitality. Jesus’s presence brought them comfort and a time for remembrance.

I can only imagine at this celebration with probably many there or we assume that from later verses, that this time of celebration was special. Being of the Jewish mindset they were preparing for the Passover now just 9 days away. Passover and the remembrance of it was also a remembrance of escaping death, oppression and all things that draw God’s people back to him. Wait a minute, there was probably also a celebration going on at what Jesus had done in Lazarus. I think being brought back to life would be a rather big deal and celebration. Celebrating that even though Mary and Martha doubted, they trusted, they were expectant of what Jesus does when he shows up.

These three verses from John 12 also speak of sacrifice, of Mary taking an opportunity to offer a gift of service to Jesus. Using the best – ointment – and humbly washing Jesus’ feet. This is not done in secret or a private place, but in front of the guest, in the open for all to see. What are we willing to do in the open in service to Jesus, without fear of what others might think? What are we willing to sacrifice for Jesus?

Unfortunately, there will always be that one in the crowd, who will question, and criticize you, remind you of the cost of what you are doing for Jesus. This was the case with Judas (John 12:4-6) when he questions why this expensive perfume was being used to wash Jesus’ feet. This of course was Judas’ way as the betrayer to draw the thoughts away from what was happening to his own agenda. This happens every day in our life when the world and evil draw us away from what is important. It comes in many forms and fashions innocently enough it seems, but the harm to our eternal souls suffers when we give in to these thoughts that move us away from the one who gives life.

This morning, I ask the question as we begin our journey to the celebration of the Resurrection, what is next for us? In our relationship with Jesus our own journey of faith. How will we today honor Christ? Get your perfume out there are many people who need the cleansing of Christ in their life, and it is up to us to pour it out.

Closing this morning with a quote by Catherine of Siena “Lose your mindless fear and take courage today. No, don’t ever be afraid, no matter what’s happened to you before. That’s right, don’t be afraid, no matter what you may see coming. Take courage because Christ was crucified for you.