Now when Jesus was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, a woman came up to him with an alabaster flask of very expensive ointment, and she poured it on his head as he reclined at table. Matthew 26:7-8
If you were a guest in the home of an Israelite, it was customary for the host to dab a pinch of ointment on you to welcome you. Mary broke her alabaster flask to pour all of the pure spikenard on Jesus’ head. As the sweet, spicy, musky fragrance of the spikenard filled the home, one disciple objected to the apparent waste of nearly a year’s wages.
Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her. Matthew 26:13
Jesus established His memorial in the Upper Room. Just as Mary gave her best and most costly possession, Jesus poured out His life for us. His blood was shed for our eternal life with Him.
And He took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is My body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of Me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you. Luke 22:19-20
America’s Memorial Day is a day of remembering the cost of freedom. Men and women poured out their lives. Their blood was shed for our freedom in America.
And the sacrifices continue today. Men, women, and families in our military are giving their lives, their limbs, their mental health, and much more – all for the cause of freedom.
Please take a moment and reflect on the meaning of our fought for freedom … it is costly.
Today and throughout this week, thank a military member, the families supporting the military, and a veteran. Let them know that they have made a difference in your life and in the lives of Americans.
God bless America, and God bless you!
My prayer
Father in heaven, thank You for giving us examples of memorials in the Bible. You have taught us that it is important to remember sacrifices and blessings. Thank You for Your great grace in sending Your only begotten Son to make the ultimate sacrifice, paying with His life for our sin. Thank You for the men and women who paid for freedom with all that they had – their lives. Thank You for the families who supported these men and women. I pray, Father, for today’s veterans and military members and their families. Bless them with the knowledge of You and the comfort and peace that only You can give. May this day be a catalyst to return America to You, Father. Ignite our spirits with a fire and a zeal for You. Bless America, Father, with an awakening and a return to You.
