[:en]Jesus Anointed at Bethany (vs. 1-11)
Six days before the Passover, Jesus went to the house of Lazarus, whom He has raised from death. Martha served while Lazarus was was among those reclining at the table with Him. Then Mary took a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume imported from the mountain of India which has a worth of a year’s wages. She poured it at Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. When Judas Iscariot saw it, he objected saying: “why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor?” (v. 5) In reality, Judas did not cared for the poor. Instead, he wanted it to be sold so that the money could be given to him as he was the money keeper. He usually used the people’s money for personal use.
Jesus defended oMary saying: “Leave her alone. It was intended that she should save this perfume for the days of my burial. You will always have the poor among you but you wil not always have me” (v. 8). His response doe snot teach us to ignore the poor and spend extravagantly for Christ. It was a revelation in anticipation of His death and burial and declaration of faith in Him as Messiah.
Many believe in Christ because of Lazarus, so the chief priests planed to kill Lazarus. Sometimes, being a living witness to Jesus’ power can pose danger to our lives.
The Triumphal Entry (vs. 12-9)
While Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem, a great crowd took palm branches and went out to meet Him shouting: “Hosanna, Blessed is the who comes in the name of the Lord. Blessed is the King of Israel” (v. 13) Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it as He entered Jerusalem. Today, we also celebrate His triumphal entry and call it Palm Sunday.
The people’s idea of Jesus as their king was to rescue them from the Roman rule. They did not know the real mission of Chirst. When they saw that Jesus did not fulfill their hope, many people turned against Him.
It was only after Jesus’ resurrection that the disciples understood the words of Jesus. They realized that they had missed many of the prophecies that Jesus said.
The people followed Jesus because they saw great miracles from Him. But their adoration was temporary and short-live. Later, they did nothing to stop Him from being crucified. Devotion of Christ based on curiosity or popularity will never last.
Jesus Predicts His Death (vs. 20-36)
Jesus said: “Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds” (v. 24) He was comparing His life to the seed which had died to pay for the penalty of ur sins. His resurrection shows He has eternal life and the power over death. Those who believe in Him will also have eternal life.
If you want to live for Christ, you have to get rid of your self-centered character and lay aside your pleasures. Let God control your life, serve Him gladly and you will experience genuine joy and eternal benefits.
Jesus welcomes both the Jews and the Gentiles. His message of salvation is for everyone regardless of status or races. Let us bring the Good News to all nations.
Jesus knew that He would die a horrible death and be separated from His Father. But He accomplished His mission in obedience to God’s will. How about you? Are you willing to obey Him?
Satan is an angel who rebelled against God. He has great power to tempt people to sin. But Jesus is more powerful because he had conquered death through His resurrection. To overcome Satan, we need to know His Word and be united with the Lord.
Jesus revealed that He would be with them in person for only a short period. He is the light so they should take advantage of His presence and become “Sons of Light” (vs. 35-36) Christians are to be bearers of Christ’s light to shine among the people.
The Jews Continue in Their Unbelief (vs. 37-50)
Despite of the many miracles that Jesus performed, many people still did not believe in Him. Their hearts have been permanently hardened. Others have believed but refused to admit for fear of rejection or ridicule. The were afraid of excommunication from the synagogue and lost their prestigious position in the community
We should seek God’s acceptance, not man’s approval. For life on earth is temporary and short-lived. Life in heaven is eternal and glorious.
The first mission of Christ was to give salvation and eternal life. His second mission is to come again and judge the people. Those who accept Jesus and live a holy life will be raised to eternal life (1 Thes. 4:15-18). Those who rejected Jesus and lived they way they please will face eternal punishment. (Rev. 20:11-15)
Decide for yourself now. Which side will be in?
Life Application:
- Mary gave her best – the most expensive perfume to Jesus. How about you? Do you give your best to Jesus?
- Judas Iscariot had selfish intent camouflaged with a show of generosity. Don’t be a hypocrite.
- Just as Jesus defended Mary for her devotion to Him, God will also defend you if you remain faithful to Him.
- In this fallen world, it is not easy to be a living witness for Christ. But if you stand firm to your belief and trust in Him, He will sustain and strengthen you.
- The Jewish people followed Jesus because of His miracle. What is your motive in following Christ?
- Jesus died for you so that you can be saved. Live for Christ and die to self.
- The Gospel is to be preached to all nations and all races.
- As Christ died for us in obedience to God’s will, let us also live according to God’s will.
- Equip with God’s word to fight against Satan’s temptation.
- Be a shining light to the world of darkness.
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