My Alabaster Box

Matthew 14:3-9 (NIV) 

While he 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. Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, ‘Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.’ And they rebuked her harshly. ‘Leave her alone,’ said Jesus. ‘Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. 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.’ 

The four gospels paint the picture of this beautiful encounter which might be worth a bit more of our attention than a single read-through. It speaks of true worship in depth and in deed. (Why not stop here and read it again before moving on?)

This passage shows us Jesus having one of his last meals in an intimate time with his closest friends and disciples. This was not long before his journey to the cross with the Divine plan and purpose of reconciling man to God. 

Mary shows up with her alabaster box of fine ointment. It was the most expensive (worth a year’s wage) and purest of oils. She empties it on Jesus so that its fragrance fills the room and envelops the spectators. Naysayers tried to discredit her by calling her a sinner. Others had strong opinions on what would be a better use of the oil. But she remains undeterred. She literally pours her all on Jesus.

Mary's action models worship in a powerful way, without words. Her alabaster box was the most precious thing she owned and it symbolised the depth of her love for Jesus. She chose to pour it all on him, keeping nothing of it or herself back. Deeply touched by this singular act, Jesus declares that wherever the gospel would be preached in the future, Mary would be remembered. As we are doing today.

 Like Mary the invitation is still open to give your all to Jesus regardless of your past or what others may think of you. Choose to worship today. 

Prayer: Jesus I break my alabaster at your feet, I pour my all.