Matthew 26:9
For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor.
**Matthew 26:9**
In the heady drama of Holy Week, this verse captures a moment where a practical concern—the value of an expensive ointment—collides with compassion and worship. The ointment, likely a costly aromatic oil used for anointing the dead or blessing guests, has stirred debate among Jesus’ followers about stewardship and social responsibility. In first-century Judea, almsgiving and care for the poor were central duties, but so was honoring a guest or Messiah through costly custom and ritual. The scene is set just before Jesus’ arrest, as the woman’s act of pouring oil on Jesus’ head or body is interpreted by some as a waste; by others, as a lavish devotion. Jesus reframes the issue, inviting recognition that devotion to him has a distinct priority in this moment. The social economy of the day valued both mercy and ritual, but Jesus highlights the immediacy of his presence and the significance of acts of worship that may seem extravagant to onlookers.
This verse foregrounds a tension between social justice and costly devotion. Jesus blesses a costly act of worship that others deem imprudent, signaling that honoring him may require resources and willingness to prioritize his presence over conventional calculations of benefit to the poor. Theologically, it points to the significance of rightly ordered affections: loving Jesus may require generous, even extravagant, sacrifice. It also foreshadows the kingdom value that Jesus embodies—radical hospitality and self-giving love—as the ultimate act of mercy that will culminate in his own death. The moment challenges readers to reframe what “worth” looks like in worship: not merely usefulness to the poor, but faith-filled devotion to Christ that may surpass typical budgeting or social expectations.
Consider the tension between practical needs and spiritual devotion in your life. Is there a time you hesitated to invest in worship or spiritual formation because you questioned the return or impact? This passage invites a balanced discipleship: care for the poor remains essential, but worship of Jesus may demand costly generosity—time, resources, or risk. Practical example: you may have funds earmarked for a charitable project but feel drawn to sponsor a church missionary, a retreat, or a mentor relationship that builds faith in your community. Pray for discernment: how can your giving advance the gospel and honor Christ in your context? Another application is hospitality: inviting neighbors into conversations about faith or offering a meal to someone in need can be a form of “ointment” poured out for Jesus. The core is heartfelt devotion that expresses itself in tangible love.
Cross-References: Mark 14:3-9; John 12:3; Luke 7:37-38; 2 Corinthians 9:7; Philippians 4:18