A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance. – John 12:2-3 NLT
As I read this passage this morning, something stuck out to me. Martha, as usual, was serving Jesus and all the guests. Lazarus was taking part in the blessing of eating with Jesus and enjoying the fellowship of his guests. But Mary… Mary was busy worshipping Jesus and honoring Jesus. I am sure the food was delicious. With Middle Eastern food, the aroma of the spices must have already filled the room. Also, laughter and joy filled the air. After all, Lazarus, who was dead for four days, had been raised from dead by Jesus. The atmosphere was already thick with hospitality and joy of fellowship, but something superseded them all -the fragrance of worship. Mary’s single act of worship and adoration was more fragrant than the aroma of the food and the celebration of the blessing.
Worship is beautiful and impactful. It touches the heart of God. We can thank people. We can praise people. But we can only worship God. Worship belongs to God alone, the One who created Heaven earth and the One who gives life to all. Do not bow down before anything or anyone else. Fall only at His feet and worship Him with your heart and soul. Worship supersedes everything else.
Your love delights me, my treasure, my bride. Your love is better than wine, your perfume more fragrant than spices. Song of Songs 4:10
How can you bring your fragrant perfume to His feet today? How can you worship? Let me know in the comments.