Good morning! Today is Friday, March 7, and we’re just six weeks away from Good Friday—the day we remember Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice. As we draw closer, today’s reading offers a glimpse into what led to that moment and challenges us to consider how we use what we have. Do we cling to our time, resources, and devotion, or do we pour them out for Jesus?
Today's Reading:
Deuteronomy 5,6; Psalms 43; Mark 14
Scripture
“But some who were present indignantly said to one another, “Why this waste of expensive ointment? It could have been sold for more than three hundred silver coins and the money given to the poor!” So they spoke angrily to her.” (Mark 14:4-5)
Observation
Judas and some of the disciples were offended. A woman had just poured out expensive perfume on Jesus—an act of extravagant love. They saw waste; Jesus saw worship.
This moment reveals two very different hearts:
- Judas’ offense: He wasn’t upset about generosity or the poor—he was frustrated that he had missed out on financial gain. John 12:6 tells us he stole from the money bag. His reaction wasn’t about righteousness; it was about greed.
- The woman’s devotion: She didn’t hesitate. She recognized Jesus’ worth and gave Him her very best, no matter the cost.
Jesus’ response makes it clear: Worship isn’t about practicality—it’s about the heart. Love poured out with no strings attached is never wasted.
Application
Do I ever measure worship by what seems “reasonable”? Have I held back because I was more focused on the cost than on the heart behind it? It’s easy to judge someone’s devotion when it doesn’t fit my expectations.
Ironically, Judas was the wasteful one. His love for money blinded him so much that, immediately after this moment, he sold Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. He thought he was making a gain, but in reality, he lost everything.
Worship always costs something—time, comfort, resources. The question is: Am I more like Judas, clinging to what I think benefits me, or am I like the woman, freely pouring out my best for Jesus?
If I keep it in my hands, it’s wasted. If I give it to Jesus, it’s invested.
The world may call it wasteful, but in God’s eyes, it’s worship.
Prayer
Lord, I don’t want to hold back in worship. Keep me from a heart like Judas, where selfishness and greed cloud my vision. Help me to see You as my greatest treasure, worth more than anything this world offers. May I pour out my best for You—freely, wholeheartedly, and without hesitation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
—Chris Kiriakos