Have You Ever Been Captivated By Him?
St Mark 14:6
If human affection does not elevate an individual beyond their own limitations, it cannot be considered love. If love is perpetually discreet, consistently intelligent, perpetually sensible, and methodically calculating, never transcending its own boundaries, it is not love whatsoever. It may be affection or emotional warmth, but it lacks the genuine essence of love. Have I ever been compelled to perform for God not out of obligation, utility, or any personal gain, but solely because of my love for Him?
Have I ever acknowledged that I can present to God matters of significance to Him, or am I merely contemplating the enormity of His Redemption while several actions remain available to me? Not divine, monumental occurrences that could be deemed extraordinary, but rather mundane, uncomplicated human experiences that will demonstrate to God my complete surrender to Him? Have I ever evoked in the heart of the Lord Jesus what Mary of Bethany evoked?
At times, it appears that God observes whether we will provide Him the forsaken signs of our sincere love for Him. Submission to God holds greater significance than individual sanctity. Personal holiness directs attention to our own purity; we are deeply preoccupied with our conduct, speech, and appearance, apprehensive of offending Him. Perfect love dispels all when we are wholly surrendered to God. We must eliminate the thought, "Am I of any utility?" By acknowledging our misconceptions, we may approach the truth. It is not a matter of utility, but of significance to God Himself. When we surrender to God, He continually operates through us.
Mark 14:6 (NIV) states: "Leave her alone," Jesus declared. What is the reason for your interference with her? She has performed a commendable act towards me. *
This verse highlights several key points.
1. **Jesus' Advocacy for the lady**: Jesus intercedes when others reproach the lady for anointing Him, exemplifying His compassion and safeguarding for those who exhibit devotion to Him.
2. **The Act of Devotion**: The woman's gesture, although ostensibly lavish, is depicted as a "beautiful thing." This underscores the importance of expressions of love and devotion, regardless of their perception by others.
3. **The Significance of Sacrificial Worship**: Jesus acknowledges the sacrifice inherent in the woman's offering, imparting that authentic worship may be expensive, yet it holds great value in His eyes.
4. **A Condemnation of Judgmental Dispositions**: The disciples' censure stands in stark contrast to Jesus' endorsement. This is a reminder to refrain from judging others' acts of worship or devotion, as they may possess profound personal importance that we do not completely comprehend.
5. **Jesus' Foreknowledge of His Death**: The woman's anointing presages Jesus’ imminent burial, illustrating the congruence of her actions with God's overarching plan.
6. **Acknowledgment of Personal Sacrifice**: Jesus affirms the woman's decision to present something valuable to Him, urging believers to dedicate their finest efforts in service to God, irrespective of external judgments.
This stanza emphasizes themes of worship, altruistic dedication, and Christ’s capacity to perceive past superficial appearances to the essence of the action.
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