Notes to the Lord:Beyond Weak Knees

Matthew 26
8When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. "Why this waste?" they asked. 9"This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor."

Lord Jesus--Are extravagant acts ever misunderstood? Yes! Here the disciples were pointing the accusing finger at this woman. Maybe it made them feel uncomfortable?

Tradition says that it was Mary Magdalene who showed such gracious love toward You. Were they concerned for the poor or were they uncomfortable with an expression of love? What will people think? After all seven demons were cast out of her.

10Aware of this, Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me.

What a great thing to be said of someone...what beautiful thing can I do for you today, Lord Jesus? That should be the goal for each day...to do something that you consider beautiful, Lord Jesus.

1The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. 12When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.

Lord Jesus--This is the part that pushes the envelope a bit...the needs of the poor are not depreciated, they are put in order of priority.

You were more important than the poor as the cross loomed in front of you. You were on the way to the cross...I wonder if the smell of this perfume was still on your feet as you walked into the upper room? Was there the hint of a fragrance on you as you prayed in the garden?

13I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."

Lord Jesus --This same women whose actions were questioned as extravagant, was also with you when everyone but John left for safer places. Places where they did not have to watch you die. I wonder if Mary ever questioned these same men for their weak kneed response in the face of the cross.

I wonder if Mary caught just the hint of the fragrance of that perfume as she was standing at the foot of the cross. I hope so...mingled with the blood and the sweat her loving act was not forgotten.

That is the kind of love I want to live out with grace...love that is extravagant and enduring. Not an easy call Lord Jesus...strengthen these weak knees.