John 12 // Love

In John 12:1-8, we witness a powerful moment just six days before Jesus' final Passover. At a dinner in Bethany, hosted in the home of Lazarus, Jesus dines with those closest to Him. Despite danger, Jesus chose to be there, displaying courage and intention.

Three figures stand out. Martha served the meal, expressing love through action. Though only briefly mentioned, her service mattered. Mary, by contrast, gave a costly offering of devotion: a pound of expensive perfume poured on Jesus' feet, wiped with her hair. It was a bold, sacrificial act of love that broke cultural norms. Her worship was humble, intimate, and extravagant.

Mary’s humility is striking. Anointing the head was a sign of honor, yet she chose His feet—the servant's place. She didn’t consider herself worthy of more. John notes the fragrance filled the house, symbolizing love that lingers, love that marks the memory. Real worship cannot be contained.

But not everyone saw it that way. Judas Iscariot objected, asking why the perfume wasn’t sold and given to the poor. He didn’t care for the poor—John tells us he was a thief. Judas viewed worship as waste. Generosity often looks foolish to a greedy heart. But Jesus defended Mary, saying, "Leave her alone. She has kept it for the day of my burial."

Jesus wasn't downplaying helping the poor but pointing to the urgency of the moment. Mary acted when she had the chance, and her act became part of the gospel story. Her worship was prophetic, preparing Jesus for burial.

Even in Judas, we find a lesson. Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, yet still entrusted him with the group’s finances. Perhaps Jesus hoped to draw out the best in him. Sometimes grace is shown by giving trust. Sadly, Judas didn't respond.

We often face temptation in areas where we are gifted. Judas' talent for money became his downfall. If we find ourselves critical of others’ devotion, we may need to examine our own hearts.

Mary's example challenges us: Do we love boldly? Do we hold back because of fear or pride? Are we concerned with others' opinions more than God's? Mary gave everything, and her love still speaks today.

Jesus values all expressions of love—practical like Martha's, passionate like Mary's, and even redemptive attempts like those made for Judas. Every act of love matters to Him.

So let us love courageously. Let our lives carry the fragrance of worship that fills every room. Don’t wait. Give your best now.

Love’s only regret is that it cannot give more. Love never counts the cost. It doesn’t care who’s looking. And it never waits until tomorrow to act today.