That scene from the movie The Perfect Storm provides a good summary of the last week of Jesus’ life. A malevolent storm of growing hostility has been brewing in Jerusalem…vv. 1-2. The hatred shown toward Jesus is matched only by the treachery and betrayal of one of Jesus’ disciples…vv. 10-11. In between these verses is a tender story that serves as the eye of the storm. In Mark 14 the sun breaks through the storm clouds and makes a brief appearance as we witness one of the most extravagant acts of love recorded in the pages of scripture. In fact Jesus declared that wherever the Gospel is preached this story will be told as a memorial to Mary’s selfless expression of love. What did she do to earn such praise and admiration from Jesus? What do we need to learn from her? How can we make a favorable impression on Jesus?
