In John 12:1–3, Mary, the sister of Lazarus, demonstrates profound love, humility, and faith by anointing Jesus’ feet with a costly perfume and wiping them with her hair. This act is significant for several reasons.
It was An Act of Worship and Devotion. By anointing Jesus with an expensive fragrance (likely pure nard), Mary showed an extravagant devotion to Jesus. This wasn’t a casual gesture; it was a deeply meaningful offering. The cost of the perfume indicated Mary’s willingness to give her very best, underscoring her recognition of Jesus’ worth and divinity.
The Foreshadowing of Jesus’ Death and Burial. Jesus later interprets Mary’s actions as preparation for His burial (John 12:7). In Jewish culture, bodies were anointed with spices and oils before burial, so Mary's act symbolically anticipated Jesus’ impending sacrifice and death on the cross.
The Recognition of Jesus’ Identity. Mary’s action reflects her understanding of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah. Her humble posture—anointing His feet and wiping them with her hair—emphasizes her reverence and submission, acknowledging Jesus as Lord and King.
A Witness to Others. Mary’s bold, unreserved devotion was a witness to those present about the depth of her belief in Jesus. Her actions contrasted with Judas’ reaction, who saw the act as wasteful. Mary’s gesture highlighted the difference between valuing material wealth and truly understanding the invaluable worth of Jesus.
Through this act, Mary not only honored Jesus but also pointed others to His true identity and purpose, foreshadowing His sacrificial love.
More: Lesson 7 - Blessed Are Those Who Believe
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