Acknowledging Value!

Some people tend to put things down of which others see great value and then there are those who greatly overvalue that of which there may actually be little value. The problem is that value is not always correctly perceived. Sometimes individual value systems are off base. As we read through the Gospels it is good for us to observe that of which Jesus noted value.

Matthew records an occasion when Jesus and His disciples were in the home of "Simon the leper". While they were reclining at the table a woman came in with an alabaster flask of very expensive ointment and poured in on Jesus' head. ( Matthew 26:6-7) Certainly such action would not go unnoticed. However, the perception of this woman's actions revealed varied value systems in the response to what was witnessed.

We read. . .
"(8) And when THE DISCIPLES SAW IT, they WERE INDIGNANT, saying, 'WHY THIS WASTE? (9) For this could have been sold for a large sum and given to the poor.' (10) But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, 'Why do you trouble the woman? For SHE HAS DONE A BEAUTIFUL THING to me. (11) For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. (12) In pouring this ointment on my body, she has done it to prepare me for burial.'" ( Matthew 26:8-12 ESV)

The disciples focused on the monetary value of the ointment. I believe there was no question as to its value. However, in the disciples' view of its use they saw it as a waste. In their estimation of things it would have been better to have been sold and the money given to the poor. Now, we might rightly agree that would be a good thing. Still, were they not in a sense devaluing the woman as well as what she had done?

What was the Lord's perception? JESUS SAW LOVE behind the action. This woman -- in her own view of Jesus -- was ready to spare no expense. Jesus acknowledged her action as not being wasteful. In fact, He acknowledged it as a "BEAUTIFUL THING". Also, as the disciples were viewing the present (i.e. benefiting the poor), Jesus looked to the future in reference to her actions being preparatory for His burial. Jesus therefore valued the gift and the woman's use of it.

Perhaps we would agree that what is done FOR JESUS is not a waste! Like this woman, if we VALUE JESUS in the way she did, our own actions will be viewed by Him as a "BEAUTIFUL THING", even when it is service on behalf of others. After all, Jesus noted actions to be done that are to be so as unto Him. ( Matthew 25:40) What a difference that attitude can make not only in what actions we value, but also in the quality of the service we extend! May the BEAUTY be seen.

Have a great day VALUING LIVING THAT REFLECTS LOVE FOR THE LORD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Value