February 9: Mark 14

Today's Reading.

Having thought a lot recently about the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16), I can't help seeing the ways that the wisdom of this world conflicts with the humility and weakness of Jesus's mission. He came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45); that sort of lowliness in the Son of God himself was too much for the wisdom of this world to abide. They had to crucify the Lord of glory (1 Cor. 2:8). 

The woman who anointed Jesus with the costly perfume did "a beautiful thing" in the sight of the Lord (14:6). Again, we see the extravagant generosity of the truly changed, truly repentant, truly worshiping sinner. When we see God's mercy, his extravagance toward us who deserved only his wrath, we can't help but respond in gratitude that overflows into every part of our life. The woman took what likely was her life savings and poured it out in worship to the Lord. We do well to learn from her response to grace.

Judas can't handle the "burial" talk (14:8) anymore. He didn't sign on for a weak crucified Messiah. He's in it for the money (the other gospel accounts reveal that Judas was mad at the woman's offering of the perfume because he was the disciples' treasurer and helped himself to their common funds [John 12:6]). Judas doesn't want to watch the Messiah die; he wants to march with him into Jerusalem and be named Secretary of the Treasury. If he can't get that, he'll at least get something from this whole Jesus ordeal (14:10-11). He'll show Jesus.

Peter is sure he won't deny Jesus (14:29-31), but has no idea how sinful he is (14:66-72). The world says put your best face on a thing; spin your way to success. The gospel says your best face is Jesus's; show him to the world by walking in humility and holiness. 

Our Lord allows himself to be arrested, lets his disciples desert him, is taken before the high priest and shows no sign of fighting back. All alone, stripped of his rights and his dignity, Jesus is asked directly, "Are you the Christ?" (14:61). He has never given a straight answer to this question and has always told those who know his identity—from demons to disciples—to keep mum about it. Now at his trial, hours before marching to his death, he reveals his glorious self to his accusers: "I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven" (14:62). 

We will all see that Day. We who are Christ's long for that Day, when justice will finally wash over this fallen earth. But the road to glory first must cross Calvary. The shame, suffering, humiliation, torture, trial, persecution and death of Golgatha stands between Jesus and his exaltation. The same holds true for us: "the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 18:14).