Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus' honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, "Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages." He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.
"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 12:1-8
If God hasn't done anything for you, then, for goodness sake, do not give him a dime. But if he has, then pour it out according to the measure you've received.
Ray Stedman
Read
Mark 14:6,8; 2 Corinthians 8 and 9
Reflect
What was your biggest takeaway from the story of Mary and Jesus in John 12?
What does Mary's example teach you about generosity?
How have you experienced God's blessing in your life?
When in life have you been on the receiving end of a radically generous act?
What is one small step you can take this week to be more generous with your time, talents, and resources?
Do
Pray and ask God, "How can I be more generous with my time, resources, experiences, wisdom and talents?" Listen for how the Holy Spirit might lead you.
Go Deeper
Principles of Generosity:
1. Pressure doesn't work.
2. Generosity doesn't just happen. It takes intentionality.
3. Our motivation is grace.
4. Our giving leads to joy.