SEEK DAILY (NBC)
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
John 12:1-8
FALSE CONCERN FOR THE POOR
"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." John 12: 7-8, NIV
Three types of giving are mentioned in today's text. The first is typified by Martha, who invited Jesus for a dinner (v. 2); The second by Mary, who anointed Jesus' feet with a costly perfume worth a year's wage, and also cleaned it with her hair (v. 3). The third type was proposed by Judas Iscariot, who suggested that the money spent in buying the perfume could be used to help the poor. The three were great, except for the various intentions behind each.
Martha may just want to impress Jesus, while Judas, though appearing to be concerned with the plight of the poor, was actually out to "help himself from the proceeds" (v. 6). But, Mary gave to appreciate God's mercy, and demonstrate her submissiveness (v. 3; Luke 7: 37-38).
People give with different motives. That is why God always checks our intentions before He rewards our acts of giving (1 Corinthians 4:5).
Mary's giving was not only costly, it was also accompanied by selfless service (using her hair to wipe Jesus' feet - v. 3). With what intention do you give to people, in the church or even to your family members? Do you give to show off or to show Jesus' love to others? Is your giving sacrificial and selfless , as unto the Lord?
Remember, the Corinthians gave themselves first to God and then to His people. Do likewise, then you can get your reward.
• Birthday Blessing: Since you are precious and honoured in my sight I will give men in exchange for your life- Isaiah 43:4
Read Bible Through Passage: Exodus 1, 2, 3; Matthew 15:1-28
The highest form of selfishness is that of the man who is content to go to heaven alone. - J.C. Ryle
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