Pastor Luke Rafuse | March 15, 2026
Introduction
Good morning, Westhill. As we continue our Lenten series, “The Final Days of Jesus: The Week that Changed the World,” we find ourselves in a season of reflection and preparation. Lent is a time for Christians to examine their hearts and draw nearer to Jesus as we approach Easter. Today, we delve into a passage that exemplifies boldness in approaching Jesus, encouraging us to do the same.
The Significance of Lent
Lent is a 40-day period leading up to Easter, set apart for prayer, fasting, and Scripture reading. It is a time to recalibrate our focus on the Lord, preparing our hearts to receive the ministry of the cross and the hope of the resurrection. As we journey through this series, we explore the last week of Jesus’ life, asking what He wanted His disciples to learn before His crucifixion.
A Costly Sacrifice
The Woman’s Bold Act
In Mark 14:1-11, we encounter a woman who approaches Jesus with an alabaster jar of expensive perfume. She breaks the jar and pours the perfume on Jesus’ head, an act of profound sacrifice and honor. Despite the criticism from those present, Jesus commends her, saying, “She has done a beautiful thing to me.”
Lessons in Sacrifice
This woman’s act challenges us to consider what costly sacrifices we can bring to the Lord. Whether it’s our finances, time, or dreams, we are called to offer them as fragrant sacrifices to God. As we approach Easter, we must ask ourselves what we hold dear that can be surrendered to honor Jesus.
Approaching Jesus with Boldness
Confidence in Faith
The woman’s boldness in approaching Jesus is a testament to her faith. She does not hesitate or doubt; she goes directly to Him, believing in His worth. This challenges us to examine our own confidence in approaching God. Do we bring our burdens, struggles, and requests to Him with boldness and honesty?
Honesty in Prayer
Approaching God with honesty and boldness allows us to experience His worth and beauty. As we prepare for Easter, we are invited to bring our honest requests to God, trusting in His acceptance and love.
Responses to Sacrifice
Misunderstanding and Criticism
Those present at the table rebuked the woman, suggesting the perfume could have been sold to help the poor. Their response reveals a misunderstanding of Jesus’ worth and the spiritual state of their hearts. They missed the beauty of her act, focusing instead on what they deemed “right.”
Reflecting on Our Hearts
As we approach Easter, we must examine our own hearts. Are we critical of others’ acts of faith? Do we need to lay down jealousy or resentment? This season invites us to be honest about our shortcomings and seek reconciliation with God and others.
Conclusion
Jesus’ response to the woman’s act of sacrifice is a reminder of what truly matters. He honors her, saying her story will be told wherever the Gospel is preached. This passage calls us to seek Jesus’ worth above all else, to be with Him, and to honor Him with our lives. As Easter approaches, let us obey His call to be honest before Him, trusting that He will guide us in His will.
Let’s pray together. Lord Jesus, thank you for your worth and sacrifice. As we approach Easter, open our eyes to your beauty and majesty. Help us to approach you with boldness and honesty, laying down our burdens and seeking your will. Amen.
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