As people cross a highway, they could smell a refreshing fragrance. They wonder where it comes from. A factory that makes perfume lets out the fragrance that spreads throughout that area. The factory cannot control the spread and cannot charge for the unintended consumption of their products. The Lord Jesus visited the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Mary broke the alabaster box, and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. (John 12:1-3) Not only the Lord, but also the betrayer Judas, Martha, Lazarus, grumbling disciples, and indifferent others experienced that fragrance.
Self-emptying: The emptying of the alabaster box is a symbolic expression of Mary’s total commitment to the Lord. The saving of one year’s wages was just poured out, and it is impossible to retrieve. The alabaster box is given to a girl, or she has to earn it, along with a few coins, when she attains puberty. The perfume is used to anoint the bridegroom when the wedding is confirmed.
The cost: First, Mary not only surrendered her marriage elements that jeopardized her marriage prospects, but also her future. Second, she could have preserved the perfume as her future security, but she did not. Third, her social honor was affected by her unbound hair in public. Fourth, she would be humiliated and would become the subject of gossip.
Jars of clay: Christians are treasures held in a jar of clay. (II Corinthians 4:7) As recipients of God’s love, grace, and power, their bodies are like jars of clay that contain the fragrance of perfume, which they spread wherever, whenever, they can. It is more evident when their lives are broken and when they suffer for His Name. This fragrance of witness cannot be controlled or regulated by anyone, including hostile governments and a hatred-filled society. Such a witness is a sweet-smelling sacrifice to the Lord. (Ephesians 5:2)
Christ’s sacrifice: The Lord Jesus Christ emptied Himself and poured out his life for us, so every disciple should be glad to make a total commitment like Mary.
Have I made a total commitment to the Lord?