A Verse
Mark 14:3
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.
A Comment
According to the first-century philosopher, Pliny the Elder, “The best ointment is preserved in alabaster.” While an alabaster jar could have been reused, the woman in Mark 14 saw no need to preserve the jar. As some have suggested, the woman’s breaking of the alabaster jar “demonstrated the completeness of the sacrifice.” How could a jar that held the oil that anointed God incarnate ever return to common use again? As we consider this woman’s sacrifice, may we reflect upon the glory of Christ. He is worthy of our very best!
A Prayer
O’ Jesus, grant us sacrificial hearts of love and adoration to You. You are worthy of all affection. In comparison to Your glory, we make no sacrifices in our offerings. It is never a sacrifice to behold and respond to Your glory. Help us to see and feel this in our souls. In Your name, Amen.
A Blessing
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13)
Alabaster Jar