In the bible, Mark tells us a powerful story — a woman came to Jesus with an alabaster jar of incredibly expensive perfume. Not the kind you find on sale in the mall. This one was worth a year’s salary. And what did she do? She broke it all and poured it on Jesus.

No hesitation. No calculations. No “Wait, is this practical?”

She gave her best because she understood who Jesus is.

Jesus called her act “a beautiful thing.”

But others didn’t see it that way. They criticized her. They questioned her priorities. They insisted her worship was wasteful.

And this is where the story confronts us:

When you honor God with your best: your time, your finances, your devotion… there will always be voices that say you’re being unreasonable.

When you save diligently then give generously, someone will think you’re being reckless.

When you choose to honor God first, others may not understand your decision.

But the question is: Whose voice will you listen to?

The world often measures value based on return on investment. Jesus measures value based on love. The woman didn’t calculate, she responded. Gratitude led to generosity.

And that’s the heart of real giving.

We don’t give because we’re forced to.

We don’t give because we’re trying to impress God.

We give because He first gave extravagantly to us.

On the cross, Jesus poured out something far more valuable than a year’s wages… He poured out His life. The ultimate act of love.

When we understand that, generosity is no longer difficult. It becomes our joyful response.

Ask yourself:

1. What’s the most meaningful or extravagant gift you’ve ever received? How did it impact your heart?
2. Like the woman in Mark 14, how does gratitude fuel your generosity today?
3. Who can you bless intentionally this week?

Prayer

Jesus, thank You for giving me the most extravagant gift, Your life. I could never repay it, but I can respond. Teach me to give with joy, faith, and freedom, just as You have given to me. Help me live generously… not to impress others, but to honor You. Amen.