Questions Jesus Asks on the Way to the Cross

But Jesus said, “Let her alone; why do you trouble her? She has performed a good service for me. Mark 14:6

Maybe it was jealousy. Maybe it was a genuine concern about the use of resources. Maybe it was anger about a woman serving Jesus. It is not clear what caused the outrage over the anointing of Jesus with an extravagant gift of a fragrant and soothing ointment. But Jesus didn’t mind. In fact, Jesus was grateful for this offering of love that brought some peace and care just before his arrest and execution, prompting Jesus to ask: Why do you trouble her? She has performed a good service for me.

Of course, being good stewards of resources matters. But so too do extravagant expressions of love for our Lord and Savior. Jesus was walking a path of obedience for Shalom that led to a cross. Jesus gave his life to demonstrate the power of Divine grace and peace to reconcile Creator with creation. Jesus, who died and was risen, is worthy of our praise, worship, and very best gifts. In heartfelt gratitude we should all perform a good service for Jesus every day.

It doesn’t stop at Jesus. Mother Teresa is one who shows us how to extend extravagant actions of love to others. Asked over and again how she was able to serve the poorest of the poor, her response was consistent: she saw Christ in others, she served Christ in others.

May we be inspired by these two faithful women. May we be remembered for our love of Christ, by our sincere praise and worship of our Leader and Savior, and in our kindness and care for others.

Yours in Christ,

Marc