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Matthew 26:10 (BSB)
Aware of this, Jesus asked, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful deed to Me.
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Aware of this, Jesus asked, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful deed to Me.” — Matthew 26:10
Imagine a room filled with tension, whispers of disapproval swirling around like a storm. Everyone's eyes are on a woman who just poured expensive perfume on Jesus. It's a bold move, and some are questioning why she would waste such an extravagant gift. But then, Jesus steps in. His voice cuts through the noise, filled with warmth and understanding. He defends her, recognizing her act as pure and beautiful. In this moment, you can feel the love and appreciation radiating from Him. He sees beyond the criticism and highlights the beauty of her gesture. It's a reminder that sometimes, what the world sees as waste, God sees as worship. It’s powerful and personal, speaking directly to the heart of compassion and understanding.
This book was written by Matthew, one of Jesus’ own disciples. He was there, witnessing these events firsthand, soaking in every moment. Matthew had a unique perspective, coming from a background as a tax collector, someone often seen as an outsider. His experiences shaped his understanding of grace and acceptance. He included this specific detail about the woman’s act to show how Jesus values genuine love over societal expectations. Through Matthew’s eyes, you see a deep appreciation for the unfiltered love that Jesus embodies, inviting everyone, including you, into that narrative of grace.
This all took place in Jerusalem during a time of great political tension and cultural upheaval. The Roman Empire was in control, and the Jewish people were yearning for freedom and a messiah who would save them. This moment occurs just before Passover, a significant Jewish festival commemorating liberation. The air is thick with anticipation, both for the celebrations and the growing tension surrounding Jesus’ teachings. Understanding this context helps you feel the weight of the woman’s actions—she’s not just pouring perfume; she’s making a bold statement in a time of uncertainty, expressing her faith and devotion in an extraordinary way.
This verse is a wake-up call for your own life. It challenges you to think about how you express love and devotion in a world that often misunderstands or criticizes those acts. Jesus’ defense of the woman reminds you that your gestures of kindness and love—even when they seem extravagant or out of place—are beautiful in His eyes. It invites you to stand firm in your convictions and to celebrate the beauty in giving, even if others don’t understand. This verse encourages you to embrace your unique expressions of love, knowing they matter deeply to God.
This week, think about how you can express love in unexpected ways. Maybe it’s writing a heartfelt note to someone who needs encouragement, volunteering your time, or doing something kind for a stranger. Pay attention to those moments that feel extravagant or out of the ordinary. Embrace them! When you feel that tug to do something generous, go for it! Remember, it’s not about how others perceive your actions; it’s about the heart behind them. Let your love shine, just like the woman in this story!
This moment is part of a larger story unfolding in Matthew. Leading up to this, Jesus is nearing the end of His journey on earth, and tensions are high. There’s a sense of urgency and impending sacrifice. The woman’s act of devotion stands in stark contrast to the cold calculations of those around her. Her boldness shines a light on the value of love and sacrifice, right when Jesus is about to face betrayal and death. By defending her, Jesus not only affirms her actions but also sets the stage for His own sacrifice, emphasizing that true love sometimes looks foolish in the world’s eyes. This moment is a pivot, both for the woman and for Jesus, highlighting what matters most in the face of criticism and impending loss.
How can you show love or kindness in a way that might seem extravagant or misunderstood by others?
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