Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

A Beautiful Thing Read Mark 14:1-11 "I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." Mark 14:9 Within most Asian cultures, death is a taboo subject especially among the aged. Some would not go to the funerals of younger friends and relatives because they fear 'bad luck'. This passage speaks of the imminence of Jesus' death. The religious leaders were plotting to arrest Jesus and kill Him (v 1). They were to find an accomplice in Judas Iscariot (vs 10-11). Jesus was fully aware of this and He commended Mary by stating that wherever the Gospel is shared in the ages to come, her action will be talked about in memory of her. Mary had seated herself at the Lord’s feet and listened to His teaching. She chose that which could not be taken from her (Luke 10:39, 42). It was from that place of the heart that she acted. She anointed Jesus, in God’s perfect timing. She loved and worshipped her Lord with extravagance, withholding nothing – not money, time nor reputation. Martha, who was also there, was busy doing instead of being (John 12:2). Judas, also at the table, went on to betray Jesus for the price of a slave and paid dearly for that. Mary chose to store up her treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20). The rich fool stored up things for himself but was not rich towards God. Some spend a lifetime and effort on the paper-chase, career, fame, fortune, worldly achievements, temporal rewards and even ministries! But they sadly miss out knowing Jesus and building a relationship with Him. Jesus is pleased when we worship Him wholeheartedly and in full surrender to Him. Ministry for Jesus must flow out of a relationship with Jesus.