Big Idea - This passage begins a new section, the final section of the Gospel. It is now two days before the Passover, which means the cross is very near. This passage is a sandwich story in which plans are being made to arrest and kill Jesus, and Judas' going to the High Priest to betray Jesus is contrasted with a woman who anoints Jesus with costly perfume. It seems very random and even inappropriate, but Jesus approves her act of devotion as preparing His body for burial. Not only that but what she does is so remarkable in Jesus' eyes that He promises that what she has done will never be forgotten. Here, this unnamed woman makes a name for herself around the world and throughout history! She achieves something every human being is seeking, and she does it without even trying! She becomes famous. She makes a name for herself. She becomes somebody significant in history. She lives a life that counts and is approved by Jesus himself! She is an example for all who want to know how to live a life that really matters!
We live a life of deepest fulfillment and purpose, 1) Not by preserving the status quo at all costs. 2) Not by seeking approval from others. 3) Not even by doing great things, like saving the world. And 4) Certainly, not by living for yourself. Instead, 5) we first live a life of deepest fulfillment and purpose by making Jesus our greatest treasure, and secondly, by a life that lines up with what God is doing.
