I hope you have these three important dates on your calendar, and that your group is planning to participate!
Recovery Sunday
September 14
Appalachian Restoration
September 20
Super Tailgate Sunday
September 21
If you didn’t get to watch my short explainer video last week, here it is again:
Choosing Sides: Giver, or Taker?
Mark 14:3–9 (NLT)
Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy. While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard. She broke open the jar and poured the perfume over his head.
4 Some of those at the table were indignant. “Why waste such expensive perfume?” they asked. 5 “It could have been sold for a year’s wages and the money given to the poor!” So they scolded her harshly.
6 But Jesus replied, “Leave her alone. Why criticize her for doing such a good thing to me? 7 You will always have the poor among you, and you can help them whenever you want to. But you will not always have me. 8 She has done what she could and has anointed my body for burial ahead of time. 9 I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman’s deed will be remembered and discussed.”
How would you describe Mary’s attitude toward Jesus in this moment? What does her act of breaking the jar symbolize about her heart?
Look back at verses 4-5. How does Judas respond to Mary’s act of worship? What do his words reveal about his character and motives?
Compare Mary and Judas. In what specific ways is Mary a “giver” and Judas a “taker?” How do these postures still show up in people’s lives today- including our own?
Discerning our hearts
How do you typically respond when you see someone give extravagantly (time, money, talent) to Jesus or His Church? Does it inspire you, or stir something else in you?
Have you ever felt convicted about whether you’re a giver or a taker in your walk with Christ, in your church, or in your relationships? What patterns do you notice?
Mary gave a costly gift not fully understanding what Jesus was about to do for her. What does this teach us about trusting and honoring Jesus even when we don’t see the full picture?
Seeing the Consequences
Jesus promised that Mary’s act of worship would be remembered “wherever the gospel is proclaimed” (Mark 14:9). What does this say about how God values wholehearted, sacrificial worship?
Judas’ betrayal is also remembered wherever the gospel is proclaimed. How does this contrast help us understand the eternal weight of our choices?
Be Happy About It
2 Corinthians 9:6–8 (NLT)
Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.
What do you think it means to be a “cheerful giver”? How is this different from giving out of guilt, obligation, or recognition?
What’s one area in your life where God may be calling you to be more like Mary—giving freely, worshipfully, and sacrificially? What would it look like to obey that call this week?