We see Mary anointing Jesus and Judas, and Judas tells Jesus that it is a waste. The money that was spent could have been used in more practical ways to help the poor. Now, of course, we know that Judas was lying, so we should not pay too much attention to him. But, to younger Andy, he did have a point. Should we use resources in that way? Do we really need stained glass windows? Robes? Crosses? Is that a waste of money? I’ve come to understand more the value of these things because they point us to beauty. And that beauty points us to God. Our souls cry for transcendence. We need beauty, even if, at first, it doesn’t seem practical.

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Good morning! It’s a blessing to be with you on this Wednesday as we continue our journey through the book of John. I hope you’re doing well, and I’m excited to dive into God’s Word together today. We’ve been exploring John’s Gospel, and it’s been a rewarding experience to unpack the depth of this amazing book.

Today’s passage is a compelling one, filled with layers of meaning.

This passage is packed with things to consider. First, we’re reminded of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead—a miraculous act that still echoes as we move into this chapter. It’s almost as if the text says, “In case you forgot, we’re talking about Lazarus, the one raised from the dead.” That alone sets the stage for the profound events that are about to unfold.

Now, let’s focus on Mary’s act of anointing Jesus with costly perfume. Judas, as we know, raises an objection. He argues that the perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor. While we know Judas’s intentions were not pure—he was a thief—there’s still something worth considering in his point. Couldn’t the resources have been better used to help others?

I think many of us, especially those who value simplicity, might resonate with this question. Why spend on lavish items when we could help the poor or support more practical needs? It’s a reasonable question. But Jesus’s response is profound. He tells Judas, “You will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have Me.”

Jesus isn’t dismissing the importance of caring for the poor—far from it. Scripture is filled with commands to care for those in need. But what Jesus is doing here is highlighting the beauty and significance of Mary’s act. It’s about recognizing the sacredness of the moment, the value of what is beautiful and meaningful in the presence of Christ.

I’ll admit, when I was younger, I often had thoughts like Judas’s. I questioned the need for stained glass windows or ornate sanctuaries. Why spend money on those things when it could go to the poor? Why have golden crosses or intricate church décor? Couldn’t that money be better spent?

But as I’ve grown, I’ve come to see the value in beauty. Beauty has a unique way of lifting our spirits, drawing us closer to the divine, and reminding us of something greater than ourselves. It’s not just about utility or function—beauty has an evangelistic purpose. It points us to God.

Think of the awe you feel when you walk into a grand cathedral, or when you hear a powerful piece of music that stirs your soul. Beauty reminds us that there’s something more, something transcendent, that calls our hearts to look up. Whether it’s a stunning piece of architecture, a moving worship song, or even the simple beauty of a sunset, these things point us to the Creator.

Yes, we must be good stewards of the resources God has given us, and we should strive to use them wisely. But our souls also need beauty. Beauty helps us reflect on God’s glory and goodness, and it can draw others into that same reflection.

Mary understood this when she anointed Jesus. In that moment, she offered something beautiful, something sacred, that showed the depth of her love and reverence. Her act was not wasteful—it was an expression of her devotion to Christ.

As we reflect on this passage, I encourage you not to overlook the beauty around you. Don’t let your heart become hardened to it. Seek out moments of beauty in your life, and allow them to point you to God. Whether in nature, in art, in music, or in the quiet moments of your day, let beauty remind you of the presence of the One who created it all.

Thanks for joining me today as we continue our journey through John. Tomorrow, we’ll pick up where we left off, and we’ll keep moving forward as we explore more of this incredible Gospel. Have a great day, and I’ll see you soon!