I’m reminded of a statement that Billy Graham made not long before he went to be with the Lord. He was asked if he had any regrets in life. In response, Billy Graham said, “I would study more. I would pray more. I would travel less, and I would take less speaking engagements. I took too many of them in too many places around the world. If I had it to do all over again, I would spend more time in meditation and prayer and just telling the Lord how much I adore him and how much I’m looking forward to the time we’re going to spend together in eternity.” Well, Billy is with the Lord now spending that time with Him in eternity.
But here before us in Mark 14 is a story of a woman who did what Billy Graham wished he had done more of. She spent a lot of time telling the Lord how much she loved and adored Him.
Practical Principles
- Mary chose what is better. We can be like manic Martha, flitting here and there, going about our business, or we can be like Mary, taking the time to sit at Jesus’ feet and hearing what He has to say. When you choose what is better, as Mary did, you’re making the best choice.
- Mary’s worship was costly. What is the most precious thing that you own? What is more valuable to you than anything else? Would you be willing to give that to Jesus? That’s what this is all about.
Relevant Reminders
- What seemed like waste to Judas was worship to Jesus.
- Can someone tell you’ve been with Jesus? Can they see it reflected in your life? Does the fragrance of your life fill the room as it did with Mary and her gift to the Lord?
- Make sure you tell your loved ones that you love them while you are still able to do so.
- Sometimes the people that complain the most actually do the very least.
Applicable Actions
We have a vast number of opportunities before us. Let’s seize the moment. “Carpe diem” is the expression. Now is the time to share the gospel with that person you know. Now is the time to make that change in your life. Now is the time to take action. That’s exactly what Mary did.
You make your choices, and then your choices make you. So make the choice now to give your best to Jesus.
