Matthew 26:6-14 offers a powerful lesson about generosity and devotion. The passage describes Mary pouring out expensive perfume—worth a full year’s wages—onto Jesus as an extravagant act of worship and devotion. Yes, it was costly. Yes, from a purely practical standpoint, it could have been used differently. But Mary’s heart overflowed with love for Jesus, leading her to offer her very best without hesitation or calculation.
Interestingly, the disciples, those closest to Jesus, became indignant at what they saw as wastefulness. They criticized Mary, appearing spiritually prudent and wise. Yet, beneath their criticism was something troubling. Judas, the treasurer, whose heart valued money above Jesus, was especially resentful. In fact, Judas soon betrayed Jesus for just thirty pieces of silver—clearly revealing where his true allegiance lay.
This story sharply contrasts two hearts—Mary’s, filled with devotion and generosity, and Judas’s, constrained by selfishness and practicality. Mary’s worship had no price limit; Judas’s worship had clear financial boundaries.
This contrast can be painfully relevant in our churches today. When church leaders present a vision for deeper generosity, missional giving, or sacrificial support for Christ’s work, responses tend to reveal hearts. Some members embrace opportunities to give, inspired by a passion for Christ and His Kingdom. Others resist, tightly holding onto resources, questioning every proposal and protecting their comfort and security over God’s calling.
As a church member, it’s worth reflecting: Whose heart do you resonate with most—Mary’s extravagant devotion or Judas’s cautious self-interest? When your church gathers to decide how to invest its resources, your response reveals your heart.
Imagine the impact if every believer chose generosity like Mary’s. Our churches would flourish in mission, care deeply for the poor, effectively pursue the Great Commission, and strengthen the fellowship within the body of Christ.
So, pause and reflect honestly before you question your church leaders’ call for more extraordinary generosity. Are you holding back, or are you ready to pour out generously for Christ?
Oh, and by the way… I’m not just talking about monetary and material things. Some of us need to be more generous with our time, talents, and presence!
Think about it prayerfully!
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4Billy Daniels, Judy Perkins Daniels and 2 others
