December 22, 2016: SOAP #2576:  John 12-14  

Scripture:  John (NIV) 12:1 Jesus, however, six days before the Passover, came to Bethany, where Lazarus was whom He had raised from the dead.  2 So they gave a dinner there in honor of Jesus, at which Martha waited at table, but Lazarus was one of the guests who were with Him.  3 Availing herself of the opportunity, Mary took a pound weight of pure spikenard, very costly, and poured it over His feet, and wiped His feet with her hair, so that the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

Observation:   The dinner was to honor Jesus for raising Lazarus from the dead.   Although it was not a part of the ceremony, Mary saw an opportunity to express her deep appreciation for Jesus.  She seized the moment.  She anointed Jesus feet with her very expensive perfume.  She may not have intended to bring attention to herself, but the fragrance spreading throughout the house could not be ignored.

Application:  Many times it is for me to seize the moment—to take the quickly passing opportunity to glorify God.  It may be speaking a word of faith, or encouragement to someone nearby.  It may be offering to pray for a need.  It may be providing an offering of money or time.  I need to seize the moment to do that which brings glory to Jesus.

Prayer:    Heavenly Father, as Mary was “availing herself of the opportunity,” may I be aware and quick to respond.  Help me to miss fewer and fewer opportunities as I grow in serving you.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!