Sacrifice Reflects God’s Worthiness: Lessons from Mary’s Act of Worship
Big Idea:
Sacrifices made for God’s glory will often look foolish to the world.
In John 12:1-8, we read about a remarkable moment of worship. Mary of Bethany, in a display of extravagant love, poured an expensive jar of perfume on Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. This wasn’t just any perfume—it was worth a year’s wages. For Mary, the cost was secondary to the opportunity to honor Jesus.
Her sacrifice reflected her understanding of Jesus’ worthiness. While others saw waste, Mary saw worship. This moment stands as a timeless reminder that true sacrifice is not about what we lose but about who we honor.
Sacrifice Is an Overflow of Love
Mary’s act of worship was born out of love. She had seen Jesus raise her brother Lazarus from the dead (John 11:43-44), and her heart overflowed with gratitude and adoration. Her sacrifice wasn’t motivated by obligation or duty; it was a response to the greatness of Christ.
When we understand who Jesus is and what He has done for us, our love for Him should inspire similar acts of devotion. Love gives generously, even sacrificially, because it recognizes the infinite value of its object.
Sacrifice Challenges the World’s Perspective
When Mary poured out the perfume, Judas Iscariot immediately criticized her, saying the money could have been used to help the poor (John 12:5). While his objection seemed practical, his heart was far from God. Jesus defended Mary, affirming that her act of worship was both appropriate and significant.
Sacrifices made for God’s glory will often look foolish to the world. People may question why you give so much of your time, resources, or energy to the church or to serving others. But worship is about pleasing God, not gaining the world’s approval.
Sacrifice Prepares Us for Greater Things
Jesus revealed that Mary’s act had a prophetic significance: she was preparing Him for burial (John 12:7). Her sacrifice, though costly, pointed to the ultimate sacrifice Jesus would soon make on the cross.
When we sacrifice for God, it often has a deeper impact than we realize. Our acts of worship can inspire others, advance God’s kingdom, and prepare hearts to encounter Him in profound ways.
What Can You Pour Out?
Mary’s story challenges us to consider what we’re holding back. What could you pour out at Jesus’ feet as an act of worship?
Time: Are you prioritizing your relationship with Him, even when life feels busy?
Resources: Are you giving sacrificially to God’s work, trusting Him to provide for your needs?
Talents: Are you using your skills and abilities to glorify God, even when it requires effort and sacrifice?
A Call to Action
This week, identify one area of your life where you can offer a costly act of worship to God. Whether it’s giving sacrificially, serving someone in need, or dedicating extra time to prayer, take a step to pour out your “perfume” at Jesus’ feet.
Here’s your challenge: Share your story. Write down or tell a trusted friend how God moved in your heart to offer this sacrifice. Let your act of worship inspire others to reflect His worthiness in their own lives.
“Lord, help me to see Your infinite worth and respond with a heart of worship. Teach me to hold nothing back and to offer You my best, even when it costs me. Amen.”
Pour out your love for Jesus this week—your sacrifice will honor Him and bring joy to His heart.
If you want to learn more about sacrificial worship, Shepherd Thoughts exists to help you live out your faith. If you or a friend needs support or resources to love God and love others more, please reach out to us today. We’d love to help.
