She Has Done What She Could

“She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.” Mark 14:8-9

There are accounts in all four Gospels of a woman anointing Jesus with a precious ointment. In preparation for writing this, I read different commentaries, and none could agree exactly how many times Jesus was anointed. Since the Gospel writers were all writing from different perspectives, their stories were not always in chronological order. All these accounts have similarities and differences, so it is not certain whether this one in Mark is the same as one of the others.

Whatever we want to believe about it, this woman in Mark brought her most precious possession, broke the container, and poured out the ointment on the Lord. It was an act of worship, showing her love for her Master. She went against all the laws of tradition to come as a woman into this gathering of men and even dare to touch Jesus. But Jesus did not condemn her for what she had done. In fact, He made it plain that her story would become part of Scripture, which would be preached throughout the entire world. I like His statement of affirmation: “She has done what she could.”

She joined the ranks of other great women mentioned in the Bible. Moses’ mother was willing to make an ark for her son because she knew God had a plan and purpose for his life. She obeyed the king’s law that all the male boys should be put in the river, but not exactly as intended. She willingly gave her most precious possession and thus saved the life of the one who would deliver God’s people.

God has given us different talents and abilities. To those to whom He has given much, He requires much. God looks at each of us individually, and all He requires is for us to use what He has given us to the best of our ability so His kingdom may grow and flourish. As we worship Him and show forth His love in whatever capacity we can, He will honour us for our faithfulness. When we come to the end of our earthly journey, may we hear Him say, “She has done what she could?”

Prayer: Jesus we are so thankful for all the blessings and gifts you have bestowed upon us. We desire to show our love to you by giving you our absolute best.

Devotion by Anne Johnston