Author Darlene J. Conard

Although the Bible doesn’t provide specific details about Mary and her Alabaster Box, his life has many possibilities. The Holy Spirit inspired the story you’re about to read. Have we ever considered what it would be like to walk in their shoes? I encourage you to embrace these stories and make them personal. Join me on this journey as we walk in the Word together! Enjoy my new series, “Walking in Their Shoes.” Mary’s Alabaster Box Read Mark 14:3-9 / Luke 7:36-50

A wave of reflection washed over me as I nestled into my favorite chair, cradling a cup of coffee. The rich aroma of the brew mingled with a crisp morning, and the sun shone through the window, creating a cozy atmosphere that invited observation. Suddenly, a series of verses resonated in my spirit: “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” These profound words from Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV) illuminated the stillness around me.

In that moment of quiet, I couldn’t help but marvel at the truth behind those verses. There was a comforting realization that with Him, there was no need for fabrication; I didn’t have to wear a mask or keep my guard up, fearing that He might misinterpret my thoughts or struggles. His compassion is unwavering, flowing freely and renewing each day, inviting me to embrace my true self without fear of judgment.

I am humbled and honored that God Himself shares His secrets with me. It brings me immense relief to know that He stands firmly by my side, with the assurance that no weapon or challenge directed against me will succeed in harming me. “If God be for me —who then can be against me?” Romans 8:31 KJV

This takes me back to a Biblical story: Mary and her alabaster box.

Jesus reclined at the table inside the ornate home of one of the Pharisees, the flickering candlelight casting shadows on the walls. Among the gathered guests, a woman, burdened by her past and aching for redemption, summoned unimaginable courage. With trembling hands and a racing heart, she stepped over the threshold, fully aware of her sins and the weight of her shame. The atmosphere was thick with judgment, yet her desperation for Christ’s transformative power propelled her forward, undeterred by the disgrace surrounding her.

She cradled her most treasured possession with trembling hands: a delicate alabaster box filled with fragrant, precious oil. The beautifully ornate box gleamed in the light, its smooth surface captivating. Inside, it held a collection of luxurious oils, each more exquisite than the last. She had carefully saved this precious gift, selecting just the right moment to share it with someone truly special.

Mary weaved her way through the bustling crowd that filled the lively house, her movements deliberate and focused. With each purposeful step, she scanned the sea of faces, her heart set on finding Jesus amidst the laughter and chatter surrounding her. The crowd’s warmth enveloped her, yet her gaze remained steady, searching for the familiar figure that brought her hope and solace. Hot, trembling tears coursed down her cheeks, blurring her vision as she finally reached Him. She lifted the exquisite alabaster box with trembling hands, its smooth surface glimmering softly in the dim light. She shattered it, the sound echoing like a silent proclamation of her devotion.

As she stood behind Jesus, tears streamed down her cheeks, blurring her vision and causing her voice to quiver with emotion. With each unsteady step toward His feet, she felt the weight of her devotion, nearly losing her balance in the Savior’s overwhelming presence. Those around her exchanged disapproving glances, their scorn tangible as they watched her humble act of adoration unfold.

All Mary longed to do was please Him, her heart swelling with a cascade of pure emotion. As she gently poured the warm, fragrant oils over Jesus’ head, the rich, sweet scent enveloped Him like a comforting embrace, filling the air around them with a delicate aroma that mingled with the hushed whispers of the gathering. She could feel the startled gasps of the guests, their eyes wide with disbelief, yet she couldn’t muster the courage to raise her gaze to meet their stunned expressions. In that sacred moment, nothing else mattered except the overwhelming love that surged within her—a love that felt both unyielding and transformative. He had rescued her from the shadows, reshaping her very existence, and she yearned to express the profound depth of her gratitude and devotion. Miracles had blossomed within her because of His boundless grace, and there was an undeniable urge to show Him how immensely He meant to her.

Battling against the weight of persecution, she sank to the cold, hard floor, her heart bound with gratitude. Her long, ebony tresses cascaded down as she knelt, shimmering like a dark waterfall. She gathered the silky strands with trembling hands and lovingly wrapped them around the feet destined to bear the cruel marks of nails, a sincere symbol of sacrifice and suffering.

Her tears streamed down her cheeks, warm and thick, each drop laden with an overwhelming sense of longing and unquenchable desire.

Anger swelled among the crowd at the mention of her praise, and a storm of voices rose in disapproval. Yet, amidst the turmoil, the Lord intervened, standing as her unwavering defender.

And Jesus said, “Leave her alone; why are you troubling her? She has done a good deed for me. You will always have the poor with you; you can help them whenever you want. But you will not always have me. She has done what she could; she has anointed my body in preparation for burial. Truly, I tell you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed throughout the world, what she has done will also be mentioned in her honor.”

Her sacrifice was profoundly meaningful to the Lord, resonating with a depth that went beyond mere actions. She possessed a deep, intimate understanding of her Redeemer, allowing her to grasp the essence of His desires. With every gesture, her heart was attuned to the ways of pleasing Him, illuminating her devotion and faith.

Aren’t you grateful for His tender mercies?

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated.

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