CELEBRATE LIFE

John 12: 1-8 (NIV)

1. Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 3.Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
4. But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 5. "Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages." 6. He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.
7 "Leave her alone," Jesus replied. "[It was intended] that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. 8. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me." John 12: 1-8 (NIV)

"I am so glad you had this party now, rather than waiting until after I’m dead," Mother had said after her eightieth birthday party.

Mother was an only child and grew up without the play of childhood. She had never had a birthday celebration before which made her eightieth one so special. Mother had been to many funerals and knew that most churches offer a dinner for the family and friends so they can gather and celebrate the life of they just lost. Mother was thrilled that she was able to celebrate her live as she had lived it with her loved ones.

Jesus knew that Mary was celebrating his life, the life he lived with his disciples and friends. While the perfume was expensive, Mary used it as an anointing oil which honored Jesus’ life and ministry.

Jesus reminds us to celebrate the living while they are with us. Love your lovelies while you have them gathered around you. Celebrate life by celebrating theirs. Let us pray:

"God of glory, Lord of our lives, we worship you and thank you for the life you have given us. Fill me with your love and your presence that I may be able to do your will as you call me to yourself. I ask that I may see each loved one around me and not pass them by. Your word does not describe Jesus as ever being in a hurry and yet we push ourselves with some silent drive. May we slow down so that we might see others more, honor others more, accomplish more, and love more. In the name of Jesus, our Lord, we pray. Amen"

Doris
"God gives us stories that testify to His love. Let me tell you mine."
Copyright 2012 Doris Gaines Rapp

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