Pertinent Questions

Scripture – John 12:4-8: But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it. “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Judas asks a pertinent question. Whatever his motives might have been, the question still stands before us – especially in this day and age. In the church, how do we decide what we’ll spend money on? What’s the best use of what God has entrusted to us? As an individual within the church, I face the same questions. Without a doubt, Mary brought an extravagant gift and poured it out on Jesus’ feet. On the one hand, it does seem like a waste. At the same time, Jesus honored the gift and the giver because it came from a pure heart to honor Him. How do I honor Christ in my giving?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) What do I have to offer Christ? Obviously, I have money, which I give (usually) with a cheerful heart. What “perfume” do I have? How can I use it to honor Him? I will address these questions. I will find something new – something personal – to give.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, open my heart as I look into myself. Help me see what you have entrusted to my care. Give me a pure heart to loosen my grip on the things I call “mine.” Show me what I have to give. Even as I look inside, keep me looking, as well, beyond myself. Please be honored in my giving. For everything I have comes from you.