Matthew 26
This is a tough one for me. My sense here is that Jesus does not discourage others to use their means to celebrate the life of Jesus...worship essentially. However, we shouldn't inappropriately spend money lavishly to worship. According to this commentary, the anointing of Jesus through the use of the expensive perfume represents a great sacrifice to Jesus in the same way that Jesus and His disciples frequently encourage us to sacrifice (time, treasure, talent). I agree with the commentary that:
"Some modern readers take Jesus' reproof in 26:9-11 as playing down the priority of the poor, and then they inexplicably apply the example of this woman's extravagance to their church building programs or other projects."
My view is that this church is an example of inappropriate lavish spending.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You provide, and You provide lavishly in so many ways...ways we see and recognize, and ways we often don't see and recognize. I know You are generous and You provide in times of thick and thin. And You expect much of those who are are provided much. I thank You that You have provided so generously to me. Yet I am not worth so much love and blessings. Thank You that You have loved me and continue to love me anyway. Yet I know there are times when I have not been a good steward of what You have provided so please forgive me Jesus. Help me turn from such temptation and sin. Help me a good steward of the time, talents, and treasures You have entrusted me.
"Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." v13
This is a tough one for me. My sense here is that Jesus does not discourage others to use their means to celebrate the life of Jesus...worship essentially. However, we shouldn't inappropriately spend money lavishly to worship. According to this commentary, the anointing of Jesus through the use of the expensive perfume represents a great sacrifice to Jesus in the same way that Jesus and His disciples frequently encourage us to sacrifice (time, treasure, talent). I agree with the commentary that:
"Some modern readers take Jesus' reproof in 26:9-11 as playing down the priority of the poor, and then they inexplicably apply the example of this woman's extravagance to their church building programs or other projects."
My view is that this church is an example of inappropriate lavish spending.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You provide, and You provide lavishly in so many ways...ways we see and recognize, and ways we often don't see and recognize. I know You are generous and You provide in times of thick and thin. And You expect much of those who are are provided much. I thank You that You have provided so generously to me. Yet I am not worth so much love and blessings. Thank You that You have loved me and continue to love me anyway. Yet I know there are times when I have not been a good steward of what You have provided so please forgive me Jesus. Help me turn from such temptation and sin. Help me a good steward of the time, talents, and treasures You have entrusted me.
