For What He’s Worth

As we begin to accompany Jesus through his passion, his enemies scheme, the traitor volunteers, but an unnamed woman carries out an extravagant act of devotion. Jesus had predicted his death, as a “ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Despite the tragic circumstances which unfold in the next two chapters, despite the worst efforts of chief priests and traitor, the burial anticipated here is good news (gospel), to be preached throughout the world. As such, it is worth everything we have. Or, rather, he is worth everything we have—and more.

The woman’s devotion is not to a cause or a truth but to Jesus himself—and, as a consequence, to his mission. Love for him is the heart of discipleship. Judas changed his loyalties. The disciples thought this woman should be more sensible and have better priorities. The woman did “what she could” (8)—all that she could—and to Jesus that was and is beautiful, something to be remembered. Sacrificial devotion to him, at the cost of reputation, the opinion of family and friends, precious possessions, future plans or pension pot, is beautiful worship. It takes priority over, but does not replace, other essential habits of discipleship, including care for the poor.

She did “all she could.” “All that we can” is not moderate; it is all-encompassing. It may not mean one great extravagant act—if the woman had not acted then, she could not have acted at all. It will mean a life of complete devotion. It is our privilege to read Mark with hindsight. We know how the story ends and we understand more than this early disciple could have done. So how much more should we do all we can to love and serve him, living lives to his glory, lives that are worth remembering.

Let us beware well-meaning counsel to be “reasonable” in our devotion to Jesus. Within that love we are to be wise stewards, but love makes everything available for his service. How can you make everything available to Jesus?