The Gift Jesus Defended

At Bethany, a woman pours costly ointment over Jesus’ head, and some at the table reduce her action to a calculation of wasted resources. Jesus sees something they miss. In Mark 14:3–9, he defends her gift as a good work directed toward him and connects it with his approaching burial. The contrast is not between loving Jesus and caring for poor people: Jesus explicitly affirms their continuing opportunities to help the poor. Rather, this particular moment calls for recognizing the person before them and the death drawing near. The woman offers what she can while the opportunity is present. Those criticizing her fail to recognize the significance Jesus gives her act. We should not turn this unique anointing into permission for every expensive religious project. Its searching invitation is to honor Jesus rather than dismiss sincere devotion simply because its value cannot be captured in a price.

Put the Word into practice

When you next discuss someone’s costly act of devotion, pause before criticizing and ask whether your judgment recognizes both love for Jesus and his stated concern for the poor.

Search the Scripture

How does Jesus’ reference to his burial explain the woman’s gift without canceling his affirmation of care for the poor?

A prayerful response

Jesus, teach me to value what you value. Receive my devotion, keep me generous toward people in need, and correct the critical spirit that overlooks love offered to you.