UNDERCOVER WORSHIPER? NOT MARY!

Undercover = Performed or happening in secret. Generally (but not always) used in reference to secret investigations or espionage, it basically and simply means, something “performed or happening in secret; clandestine.”

In John chapter 12 we read the account of an interesting dinner, where Jesus was present. Lazarus, who Jesus brought back to life after being dead 4 days, was also there, as well as his sisters Martha and Mary. Because Jesus was getting a large following, the religious leaders sent out a command to seize Him. They were plotting to kill him. (see Chapter 11:45-57) Unfazed by the campaign against Him, Jesus and some of His friends were doing life as normal. In this case, they were in the house of Simon the leper, according to Matthew 26:6-13.

Martha was serving; seems that was her specialty. Mary, the one who sat at Jesus’ feet to hear His words in another occasion that Luke related about, took a pound of very costly oil, anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair. What can we learn from Mary’s act of worship?

1. Jesus was being tracked by the authorities. It wasn’t “politically correct” to show devotion to Him, especially in the home of a social outcast like Simon! It didn’t matter at all to Mary. She didn’t care what others thought, or worry about the potential danger. She simply worshiped!
2. She chose the best, and poured it all out. It was planned; it was a priority. She withheld nothing! It was all about Jesus, and all for Him! She knew He deserved the best, and sincerely worshiped!
3. She chose to do it publicly. SHE WAS DEFINITELY NOT UNDERCOVER! Everyone present knew that they were in the presence of a Christ-worshiper, because John reported that “the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.” Not only that, but they knew they were in the presence of Someone – the Only One – worthy to be worshiped….Jesus!

God’s Word is like a mirror. As I read this account of Mary’s public worship, I look at my own life and wonder if those around me perceive that they are in the presence of a Christ-worshiper. Does my attitude reflect that? Is my devotion to Him filling my home, workplace, or wherever I go, like Mary’s perfume filled Simon’s house? God give us His grace to live so that everyone around us knows that they are in the presence of a true worshiper – who worships the Only One who is worthy of all worship!