The Word 05/02/07: I Have a Destiny …Part 2

Lazarus was dead. Mary’s beloved brother had passed away. We all know that Mary loved Lazarus. And now he lay there… Motionless. Lifeless. Earlier, Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” But Jesus did not come and Lazarus died.

In those days, it was commonly believed that a person could be raised from the dead within three days. It was the fourth day now and Jesus had not come. Mary lost all hope. She washed her brother’s dead body. She covered him with grave clothes. She watched him being laid down behind that large stone… and she grieved.

We all know full well that in the end, Jesus came. And we all know that Lazarus was raised from the dead. We also know that, a few days later, the same Mary that buried his brother Lazarus came and “took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume. She poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” (John 12:3)

But do you realise that Mary could have easily poured the perfume on Lazarus’ burial and not on Jesus’ feet? She loved Lazarus, her brother. And she must have been very disappointed with Jesus. Everyday she looked out of the window in expectations that Jesus would come to their cry for help. But Jesus did not show up upon request. She might have bitterness towards Jesus. Or resentment. Or anger. She must have a lot of questions. She might feel loss too. And in her pain, she could have easily lavished the perfume she has saved for her brother’s burial instead.

But she did not. Do you know why? Because she knows that she has a destiny. You too, can easily give up your best when you face your darkest moment. You can give up your virginity when you get disappointed with some man or woman. You can easily compromise your standard when disappointed. But please remember… you too, just like Mary, have a destiny. Don’t give up! You do have a destiny! And keep your best for Jesus!

John 12:7
Jesus replied “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.”