Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 26: 6-13

Well, looking back at this passage of Scripture, we don't really see the record of Jesus' direct interaction with this woman.  The words that He might have spoken to her are lost in history.  However, what Jesus said in her presence about her are just marvelous! 

In a time when women were worth less than cattle, Jesus stood by this woman fiercely even against His so-called-friends, the disciples.  When someone among His disciples reduced, (Matthew doesn't record who uttered these words, but we find out in John later on) the extravagant gift this woman had given to Jesus to a mere waste, Jesus immediately spoke in her defense for the world to see and for posterity to witness and ponder:

“Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 11 The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. 12 When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.13 Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.” Matthew 26: 10-13

WOW!

I don't want to make a fool out of myself trying to attempt to comment on Jesus' words.  They stand on their own perfectly clear.  One thing I do want to highlight, though...notice the last sentence on verse 13...go ahead...read it again.  I had to read it several times before they struck me.  

13 Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”

Over and over in Scripture we see Jesus stating that things are for the glory of God...here, Jesus is saying that this passage will be preached "throughout the world," so we would remember her.  This woman's sacrifice was credited to her, by Jesus Himself, as an act worthy of being remembered through time and space...as an example to be followed...as a worthy manner of worship...

The costly sacrifice of this woman was received by the Lord of Lords as good and appropriate, so much so, that He used it as an illustration that is still captivating souls over 2,000 years later...and more so, as a testimony of how Jesus comes to our defense against those who oppose us or who try to humiliate us and discredit us when we are just pouring ourselves out in sacrificial and sincere offering to Him.

If life takes you to a path where you start to wonder and doubt that Jesus cares and/or appreciates you and what you do...read this passage, and find refuge and comfort on the words of Jesus Himself.  He knows...He knows the extent of your sacrifice.  He knows the pain in the offering.  He acknowledges the beauty of your intentions.  And He stands right by you on your behalf in the time of trouble and judgement.  He is our Heavenly Advocate...and against Him, nothing or no one can stand.

May we be willing to offer the costliests of sacrifices to Christ's.  And may we be covered by His Words and protected by His arms around us in our hour of most need.  Amen!