Matthew 26:6–13 (NLT) — 6 Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy. 7 While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume and poured it over his head. 8 The disciples were indignant when they saw this. “What a waste!” they said. 9 “It could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” 10 But Jesus, aware of this, replied, “Why criticize this woman for doing such a good thing to me? 11 You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me. 12 She has poured this perfume on me to prepare my body for burial. 13 I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman’s deed will be remembered and discussed.”
1. The Motivation for Worship
- They saw Him as worthy.
- They were deeply grateful.
- They wanted to serve Him.
- They wanted to be close to Him.
2. The Obstacles of Worship
- People's perspectives.
- It's not important.
- It's not appropriate.
- It's not a priority.
3. The Harvest of Worship
- Immediate harvest - They smelled like perfume.
- Long-term harvest - They leave an example for all of us.
- Eternal harvest - If Jesus remembers the ones who gave a cup of cold water, surely he will never forget the one who anointed him for burial.
- Considering the seeds of others throughout the Bible:
- Solomon: He worshiped and the glory fell.
- David: He danced and set the culture for the Kingdom.
- Paul: He worshiped in the prison and the walls came down.
- Job: He worshiped and it became an example in heaven.