Today we are reading Matthew 26. In this chapter we read about the events of the night when Jesus was betrayed. Immediately before this, He is anointed by a woman in Bethany. “a woman came up to him with an alabaster flask of very expensive ointment, and she poured it on his head as he reclined at table. And when the disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste? For this could have been sold for a large sum and given to the poor.” But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a beautiful thing to me. For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. In pouring this ointment on my body, she has done it to prepare me for burial. Truly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.”” Matthew 26:7-13 ESV This story seems to indicate a disagreement between the disciples and Jesus and serves as a pretext for Judas turning against Jesus. The woman anointing Jesus is known throughout the world. What is forgotten is the alternative suggested by the disciples—giving money to the poor. We have no record of the disciples giving money to the poor. Jesus defends the woman. Have you ever been criticized for something you did serving Jesus? When we act out of love and devotion to Jesus, He is pleased. May your love for Jesus be known today. Pastor Tim
