WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH: WHAT WOMAN IN SCRIPTURE AM I MOST LIKE? (The Woman with the Alabaster Jar)

What a Waste?
 
Scripture: Matthew 26:6–13; John 12:1–8
 
Jesus and His disciples were gathered in Bethany at the home of Simon. During the meal, a woman entered carrying an alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume. Without hesitation, she poured the fragrant oil over Jesus’ head. The rich aroma filled the room.

But not everyone appreciated the moment.

Judas Iscariot objected. Disguising his true motives with concern for the poor, he asked why such costly perfume had been wasted. According to him, it could have been sold and the money given to those in need.
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To Judas, it was wasteful. To others in the room, it may have seemed excessive or unnecessary. But they did not know her story.

Devotion:
This woman knew what Jesus had done for her. She remembered His mercy, His forgiveness, and His love. What others saw as waste, she offered as worship. And Jesus, who sees every heart, defended her. He honored her devotion and declared that her act would be remembered wherever the gospel was preached.

Sometimes I feel like that woman.

Lesson/Takeaway:
I consider my writing an offering to Christ. The stories I write are like the precious oil poured from an alabaster jar—my attempt to honor the One who gave His life so that I might have eternal life. Not everyone will understand the value of that offering. Some may question the time, the effort, or the purpose behind it.

But the Lord knows the heart behind the gift.
When our work flows from gratitude and devotion, it becomes worship.

​Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for Your forgiveness and the gift of salvation. I pray that the words I write will be pleasing to You and that they will draw others closer to Your heart. Amen.

W. Mason Dunn is a best-selling author who writes faith-inspired stories that reflect God’s love, forgiveness, and redemption. She is passionate about encouraging readers through storytelling and helping others share their own testimonies through writing.

​Waletta and her husband, a retired U.S. Marine, have been married nearly four decades and enjoy spending time with their family.