John 12:7-8 is about Jesus declaring that though Judas may question the use of expensive perfume poured on him instead of being sold to help the poor, it was to honor his impending death and burial, indicating the ultimate sacrifice and significance of Jesus’ mission on Earth.
7 Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial.”
8 For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.”
Setting the Scene for John 12:7-8
The scene in John chapter 12 unfolds in the town of Bethany, at the home of Lazarus, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Jesus is reclining at the table with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of gratitude and awe as Lazarus, once dead but now alive, sits beside Jesus, a living testimony to the power and compassion of the Son of God.
The group had come together for a meal, likely to celebrate the miraculous resurrection of Lazarus. Martha, known for her hospitality, is busy serving the guests, while Mary, known for her devotion, takes a costly jar of perfume and anoints Jesus’ feet with it. The fragrance fills the room, symbolizing her deep love and reverence for the Savior. Judas Iscariot, one of the disciples, questions the extravagance of Mary’s gesture, but Jesus defends her, recognizing the significance of her act of worship.
In this intimate setting, amidst the warmth of friendship and the lingering scent of perfume, Jesus uses the moment to teach a profound lesson about the value of sacrificial love and devotion. The scene captures a beautiful blend of gratitude, worship, and the foreshadowing of Jesus’ impending sacrifice, setting the stage for the events that will soon unfold in Jerusalem.
What is John 12:7-8 about?
Jesus is defending Mary’s actions of anointing His feet with expensive perfume in this verse. This act of Mary was a gesture of deep love, honor, and reverence towards Jesus. Jesus is acknowledging and appreciating the sincerity and intention behind her actions by defending her. He is emphasizing the significance of love and devotion in human relationships, particularly the relationship between a believer and God.
Have you ever reflected on the depth of your love and devotion towards others, especially towards God? Do you realize the importance of expressing your love through actions, just like Mary did with the perfume? Jesus’s defense of Mary’s actions serves as a reminder for us to show our love and devotion in tangible ways, whether it be through acts of kindness, service, or worship. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and question if our actions reflect the depth of our love and faith. Let us ponder on this verse and consider how we can show love and honor towards others in our lives. Are there ways in which we can express our appreciation and devotion to those we care about? Let us strive to take inspiration from Mary’s example and show love and kindness in our actions, just as Jesus defended and appreciated her gesture of love.
Understanding what John 12:7-8 really means
In the narrative of John 12:7-8, we witness a poignant interaction between Jesus, Mary, and Judas Iscariot that sheds light on the delicate balance between acts of charity and moments of spiritual significance. Mary’s profound gesture of anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume sparks a debate, with Judas questioning the practicality of her actions, suggesting the perfume could have been sold to aid the poor. Jesus, in response, delivers a powerful message that transcends the immediate context of the situation.
“Leave her alone,” Jesus asserts, defending Mary’s act of devotion and highlighting its symbolic importance in preparing Him for burial. This statement underscores the depth of Mary’s understanding of Jesus’ impending sacrifice and the prophetic nature of her actions. By keeping the perfume for the day of His burial, Mary demonstrates a profound awareness of the spiritual significance of the moment, foreshadowing the events to come.
Jesus’ words, “The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me,” serve as a reminder of the transient nature of unique spiritual opportunities. While caring for the poor is a perpetual duty, Jesus emphasizes the fleeting nature of His physical presence on earth and the importance of seizing moments to honor Him before His crucifixion. This distinction highlights the need to balance ongoing acts of charity with recognizing and embracing moments of spiritual significance.
The parallel accounts in Matthew 26:11 and Mark 14:7 reinforce the message of prioritizing spiritual moments while not neglecting the continuous responsibility of caring for the less fortunate. These passages echo the sentiment that while the poor will always be present, there are rare occasions that demand immediate attention and reverence. Additionally, the reference to Deuteronomy 15:11 aligns with Jesus’ acknowledgment of the perpetual presence of the poor, emphasizing the enduring need for compassion and charity in our lives.
In today’s bustling world, where distractions abound and priorities often compete for our attention, the lesson from John 12:7-8 resonates deeply. It serves as a gentle nudge to remain mindful of God’s presence amidst our daily routines and to be vigilant in recognizing and embracing moments of spiritual significance. Just as Mary seized the opportunity to honor Jesus in a profound way, we are encouraged to prioritize our relationship with God amid our earthly responsibilities.
Consider a scenario where a busy professional, dedicated to charitable work, faces a dilemma between serving at a shelter and attending a spiritually enriching church service. Initially torn between obligations, they choose to attend the service and experience a profound renewal of faith. This anecdote mirrors the delicate balance between ongoing acts of charity and seizing unique spiritual opportunities, illustrating the timeless relevance of the message conveyed in John 12:7-8.
In conclusion, these verses invite us to reflect on the interplay between acts of charity and moments of spiritual significance. By internalizing the deeper meaning behind Jesus’ words, we are encouraged to navigate life’s complexities with a heightened awareness of God’s presence and a willingness to honor Him in unique and meaningful ways.
How can we prioritize showing love and service?
We emulate the actions of Jesus by focusing on showing love and service, as He lived a life of sacrificial love and service to others. This is a powerful way to reflect the light of God in the world and fulfill our purpose as followers of Christ. When we prioritize showing love and service, we demonstrate the transformative power of love in action, extending compassion, kindness, and support to those around us.
Our actions speak volumes about our faith, and by prioritizing love and service, we can be a beacon of hope and encouragement to those in need. Putting the needs of others before our own and showing genuine care and compassion can have a profound impact on individuals and communities. It is through our acts of service and love that we can truly embody the teachings of Jesus and make a positive difference in the world around us.
Application
Think about the dedication you put into your work and caring for your family. In John 12:7-8, Jesus showed us how to give our very best without holding back. Let’s take this lesson to heart and find ways to share that same selfless love in our daily lives. Look around you; there are always chances to help someone in need. Isn’t it time we start living out this love through our actions?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.