Not ForgottenSample

Mary of Bethany

Mary is one of my greatest heroes from the Bible. Being a woman in the days she lived wasn't easy, and other people's rules and expectations would have been a constant pressure; yet time and time again, she demonstrated her love for the Lord was her greatest priority.

Mary was undistracted (Luke 10:38-42).

Mary knew how to focus on what was the most important, Jesus, even amid distractions and criticism. How often have I allowed the "many things" to distract from the most important thing? I want to learn to live undistracted.

Mary was vulnerable (John 11:29-43)

When her brother Lazarus was sick, she knew Jesus could heal him. But then, Jesus didn't come in time, and her brother died. She felt so much pain and disappointment but didn't try to hide that when Jesus did come. She was real with her pain but also genuine in her trust and belief in Jesus.

Mary had a heart of Extravagant Worship (John 12:1-8)

Once again, Mary demonstrated that Jesus was her number one priority. When she considered the value of the alabaster box of perfume (a year's wages) to the worth of Jesus, she responded in extravagant worship, pouring the oil out over Jesus and washing His feet with her hair. Those around her were offended by the "waste," but to Mary, offering such a gift to the One she loved so much was worth every drop. I want to possess a heart of extravagant worship.

What would it look like for you to live a life of extravagant worship, holding nothing back?