Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair, and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment. John 12:3
There is an old saying that fragrance clings to the hand that gives a rose. When we consider Mary’s act in our text, we see that the Lord Jesus received His worship and offering, and the people in the home were able to appreciate the wonderful odour of the ointment. Her act of giving resulted in blessing for others. But note that she used her hair to wipe Jesus’ feet. For many days afterward, Mary would be marked by the fragrance of that spikenard. All those she came into contact with would know what she had done. And she would rise each morning with the reminder of that great event, and spend each waking moment appreciating that Jesus had received her offering. And so it is with all who will pour out their devotion and worship to the Lord Jesus.
Spikenard as an ointment is – and always has been – very valuable, because of its relaxing and comforting fragrance and because of its many medicinal benefits. Applied to the skin, spikenard as noted for relaxing and softening. To have so much spikenard applied as Mary used on this occasion would have been most delightful. It is certain that none of the others in the house had ever experienced such a treat as Jesus received that day. When we think of such a wonderful present given to the Lord, we can only be amazed at Mary’s outpouring of gratitude and worship. It makes us wonder today if there is anything comparable that we can do for Him.
Because we don’t have the presence of our Lord with us physically, we must find other ways in which to express our worship and devotion. Such ways are available, and we have appreciated those who have found them. Preparation for worship at the Remembrance meeting of the Assembly produces sweet fragrance that is appreciated by the Lord and by all those in attendance. A life that is lived in obedience to His Word and in conformity with His life is also like precious ointment poured forth. Doing deeds of kindness and devotion unto others as we would do to our Lord and Saviour is also an ointment that is sweet and precious. So is the giving of our substance for the honour of His name and the furtherance of His Gospel.
If we would be numbered among those who savour of Christ, we must know what it is to pour out our resources, energies, and passions on those things that bring glory to His Name. -Jim MacIntosh