What Was In His Power?

In a Gospel story, Mary breaks a vase full of perfume and pours its precious contents on the head of Jesus. His act, considered by some as pure waste, arouses strong criticism. Why not instead sell this perfume and pass it on to the poor? But Jesus takes his defense and declares before everyone that he approves of her gesture and is sensitive to it. Filled with love for her Master, Mary's heart dictated this act to her; she thus anticipated the moment to embalm the body of Jesus. She sensed that her death was near, and it was now or never!

Christian, Jesus does not value your actions according to human standards. Doing what is "in your power," thinking of him above all, is what is of value to him. It is not the success that he appreciates but the motives that drive you and the love and loyalty you show him.

• Are you limited to visibly serving him because you are lying on a hospital bed, disabled in a nursing home, or isolated in prison?

• Don't you have anyone to tell you about Jesus?

• Don't you have any other possibility than to pray?

Just do for your master what's in your power. He will appreciate it and will know how to encourage you. For him, what counts is not service seen and appreciated by others but a heart that overflows with love like that of Mary. You will then know how to discover the good works prepared by God himself (Ephesians 2:10). He knows what is within your reach and what is not. "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it according to your power" (Ecclesiastes 9. 10). 

Source: The Good Seed

Study Verses: Jesus said: Leave her alone; why are you bothering him? She did a good work for me… What was in her power, he did. Mark 14. 6-8

The Lord… will manifest the intentions of hearts; and then, for each one, approval will come from God. 1 Corinthians 4.5

Shalom! Peace be with you all!

Betty

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