Yesterday we noted the criticism a woman received when she anointed Jesus while He was dining in the home of a man named Simon. Jesus quickly spoke in defense of this woman’s actions. Today, let us consider the first of three compliments associated with what this woman did.
We read. . .
“(6) But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. (7) For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me.” (Mark 14:6-7 ESV)
First of all, Jesus called this woman’s actions toward Him a “beautiful thing”. What she did was accepted by Him as preparation for His burial; something others went to do after His burial but could not fulfill because He had already risen. (Mark 16:1-6) This generous gift was offered with unselfish love for the Lord. This was the time. This was her opportunity. She took it and the Lord accepted her actions as a beautiful expression of grateful devotion to Him.
Some see beauty where there is actually ugliness. Jesus noted some among the Jewish leaders whom He described as “whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness.” (Matthew 23:27 ESV) Then there are others like these who criticized the woman who anointed Jesus who were unable to see the beauty of her actions as Jesus did, but only an ugly waste.
Service for the Lord and to His glory should always be viewed as a beautiful thing and never a waste of energy or time. No service should be viewed as too small or beneath us when the opportunity presents itself. It is beautiful hands that offer even a cup of cold water in Jesus’ name and receive a reward. (Matthew 10:42) Paul referred to the beautiful feet of those who would share the good news about Jesus. (Romans 10:15) And Peter pointed to the imperishable beauty of a woman’s gentle and quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:4); a beauty that far excels that of all the glittering diamonds in the world.
It has been said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. As the Lord beholds our life it is His estimation which matters most. May we truly recognize the depth of beauty as it is acknowledged by Him and the various ways in which it can be exhibited in our life!
Have a great day LIVING A BEAUTIFUL LIFE OF GOLDEN DEEDS!
Carl
