Matthew 26 – The Listening Plan

Devotional

But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste?

– Matthew 26:8

The Gospel of Mark informs us that this objection was levied by Judas. Not surprising. But the objection brings to the forefront an important question.

How valuable is Jesus, to you?

The woman that anointed Jesus appraised Him worthy of significant value. Again, it’s Mark’s Gospel that says, “it might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii.” That’s 300 days wages. More than 300 days wages! A year’s income tied up in the sealed, fragrant oil. It deprecated instantly when the seal was broken. But to the woman (Mary), Jesus was worth it.

But then Judas. The disgruntled disciple. Or maybe we should say, the soon betrayer. To Judas, Jesus was of little value. Jesus was a means to an end for Judas. He used Jesus, or his connection with Jesus, to have access to money; perhaps power, position and privilege. Ultimately he accounted Jesus’ life as worth 30 pieces of silver.

Quite a contrast. How valuable is Jesus, to you?