JESUS A FRIEND OF OUTCASTS
S - "While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head" Mark 14:3
O - This picture tells a thousand stories. Jesus is in the home of a leper. An untouchable person. But he hasn't just called to heal, he has called to enjoy the hospitality of this outcast. In fact, He was reclining at Simon's table. Very relaxed. Very comfortable and at home. Jesus dared to show the world at that time, that He came for everyone, especially for those who were ostracised. And then the woman came in. Oh women of the world. How, as a gender, we are so ostracised, so often badly treated. In all the world women are the poorest, most abused, and disempowered of the genders. But Jesus dares to show that He, God himself, shows that women are important. And this woman, out of her love and devotion to Jesus pours a years worth in wages of expensive perfume over Jesus head. Many have said that this was to fortell of His death and burial. But to me it also tells of why He came. He came to give His life for those who had no voice. For those who were outcasts.
A - When I see people who do not have the influence, the opportunities and the blessings I have, I need to remember that Jesus came and gave especially to them. And he gave also as an example to show those who do have influence and opportunity as I do, to share and give, and enjoy as much as possible.
P - Dear Jesus, what an amazing example of grace and life you are to me. Help me to be more and more like you and to love others as you do. Amen.
Daily Reading Mark Chapter 14
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