Earlier this year, I had the privilege of attending a gathering of ministry apprentices who are training in various churches in the UK. At the gathering, an old friend of mine shared something remarkable about John 12:1-8.
Six days before the Passover, Jesus therefore came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So they gave a dinner for him there. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those reclining with him at table. Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was about to betray him), said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” He said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and having charge of the moneybag he used to help himself to what was put into it. Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.” 1
Here, John the Evangelist records that Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with the expensive oil. Thanks to the other gospel accounts, we know that this fragrant oil was poured on Jesus from head to toe. We also read that the fragrance of the perfumed oil filled the house. It would have been an overwhelming experience.
But my friend pointed out that in this moment, Mary is proclaiming Jesus to be the anointed King. The fragrance on him would have lasted for days, but the following day—according to John—would be the triumphal entry. As Jesus entered the city, riding on a young donkey, he entered it as the anointed King and the scent of perfume would have gone before him.
And it is this one that we follow, the Anointed King who entered into his Father’s presence in triumph. He is the one like a son of man who can come into the presence of the Ancient of Days 2 to receive dominion, glory, and kingdom.
Sincerely,
Pastor Dan
Prayer points
Continue to be in prayer for those in our fellowship who are struggling with poor health as well as for those who are caring for family.
Pray for Pastor Dan and John Little as they will be attending an interfaith event on Wednesday. Pray that God would give them the words they need and that they would be ready to give an answer for the hope they have.
Pray for The Journey, which launches on 4 September. Pray that God would grant us favour as we seek to reach Gen Z and Millennials in our community.