Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, “Why this waste of perfume?

Mark 14:4

For meditation

They Will Not Understand

Mark 14:4

New International Version (NIV)

Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, “Why this waste of perfume?

For meditation

Do you honestly think people will understand you all the time? How naïve!

Don’t you know people will always have their opinions about what you do and how you should do it? However, none knows your heart and why you do things as you feel led. So, why do you worry about their thoughts and sneers?

Have you forgotten that there is One who always understands when no one does—One who knows your spiritual sensitivity and overwhelming gratitude welling in your heart for Him?

Doesn’t the story of Mary’s anointing of Jesus at Bethany illustrate this perfectly for you (Mk. 14:1-9)? While Judas led the chorus of deceitful and misplaced criticism against her act of love and gratitude (Mk. 14:4-5; Jn. 12:4-5), do you remember how Jesus characterized it as “a beautiful thing” (6)? Which of the two opinions should matter to you?  

So, why don’t you examine your motives and intentions for everything and do what your heart moves you to do in Christ? Should not the opinion of Him, who is the ultimate Judge of all, be your goal? Shouldn’t His word be the only director of “the thoughts and attitudes of your heart” (Heb. 4:12) in everything?

I pray you will stop tormenting yourself over people’s petty criticisms and misplaced accusations and focus on Christ Jesus, who is the reason for what you always do.  

So, may you hear Jesus rebuke your accusers, “Leave her [him] alone,” and encourage yourself by His opinion of you! “She [he] has done a beautiful thing to me” (6b). And may the Lord pronounce His blessings upon you and your household because He accepts your offering and sacrifice.