Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial.”
John 12:7
Before the triumphant entry that led to Jesus’ crucifixion, Jesus dined in Bethany, with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. After dinner, Mary poured expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet and wiped it with her hair, which filled the house with the perfumed scent.
Judas (many of us can relate to him in this passage, his practicality and also selfishness ring out) argued that the expensive perfume was worth a year’s wages—it should have been sold and the money should have gone to the poor.
Then, in 12:7, Jesus defends Mary. He responded to Judas by telling him to leave Mary alone; she brought the perfume for the day of his burial.
When our class read the passage, the following themes occurred in our discussion:
• Mary had complete faith in Jesus, the Christ. She had reverence, respect, and honored him.
• Following Jesus has nothing to do with your level of society; people in different economic situations can still be faithful followers.
• Mary using her hair to wipe Jesus’ feet is a humbling gesture.
• People showed their love to Christ in different ways- this was Mary’s gift to Jesus.
• Mary made Jesus a priority,
• Are we too practical for faith?
• Do we understand what extensive sacrifice is?
At a time before Jesus’ death and resurrection, Mary proved her love and devotion to Jesus, despite criticism. What a role model she is to us!
Young Adults in Church (YAC, grades 10-12)
