Daily Bible Reading— April 2025, God’s Strengthening Word: Assurance of Hope in Christ JesusSample

Introduction

John 12:1–11: Mary anoints Jesus with expensive perfume, and Judas Iscariot pretends to criticize the waste. Jesus affirms Mary’s action and rejects Judas’s interpretation. The reading concludes with the religious leaders extending their plot to include killing Lazarus, whom Jesus had raised from death.

Today’s Key Verse: John 12:8

[Jesus said:] “You will always have poor people with you, but you will not always have me.”

Reflect

The reference to Mary anointing Jesus was noted earlier by the Gospel writer in John 11:2 (see the reading from April 5). What are your thoughts regarding Mary’s action (verse 3)? Regarding Judas’s words (verse 5)? Regarding Jesus’s response (verse 7)? Why were the religious leaders making plans to kill Lazarus?

Pray

Lord Jesus, like Mary I seek to serve you with devotion and love. Empower me to serve in ways that advance your kingdom and bring glory to you. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Luke 18:18–43: Jesus and the rich man.