In Memory of Her

Truly I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her. Matthew 26:13 

How will you be remembered? Do you think about that? I do.

Mary of Bethany is remembered for her extravagant worship of Jesus. She broke a costly, carved bottle of alabaster filled with outrageously expensive perfume to anoint Jesus. The lavishness of her offering was so great that even the ones who believed in and loved Jesus were indignant (v.8). But Jesus honored her for her gift.

The occasion was Jesus’ last Passover. In two days, He would be sacrificed as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (Jn. 1:29).

It is no accident that Mary’s extravagant worship offering is in juxtaposition to Judas Iscariot’s betrayal. Wherever the gospel is preached, Judas is remembered for selling Jesus out for 30 pieces of silver. Mary and Judas are listed side by side. One remembered and honored for her lavish worship. One remembered for his betrayal and tragic death.

During Passover, the time that we remember Jesus’ death and resurrection, I am thinking of these two disciples. They both had close relationships with Jesus. They both had walked with Him for years. Yet, their legacies stand in stark contrast.

I, too, have a close relationship with Jesus. I have walked with Jesus for many years. What will my legacy be? When the gospel is preached, how will I be remembered? I am hoping I am remembered for my extravagant worship of Jesus. How about you?